Dehradun Horror: 2 Autistic Brothers Raped, Burnt with Cigarettes at Hostel

A horrific incident at an unregistered boarding school for special needs children in Dehradun has shocked the nation. Two autistic brothers, aged 9 and 13, from Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, were allegedly raped, beaten, and burnt with cigarettes by a staff member, Monu Pal. The crime came to light when the victims’ mother visited and noticed their distress. Pal was arrested on June 1, and the case, reported by the Times of India and trending on X, has sparked outrage, highlighting the vulnerability of disabled children in unregulated facilities.

Brutal Assault Uncovered

The brothers, admitted to the school in April, endured weeks of abuse. Their mother, during a routine visit, found them traumatized and physically injured, with cigarette burns on their bodies. She filed a complaint at the Roshni police outpost, leading to Pal’s arrest under BNS sections 64(2) (rape) and 115(2) (causing hurt), along with POCSO Act provisions. Police, with help from the Child Welfare Committee, used translators to communicate with the brothers, confirming the horrific details. X posts, like one from @Aditi14Bhardwaj
, called it “shameful,” demanding justice.

Unregistered Facility Under Scrutiny

The boarding school, operating without proper registration, has raised alarm about oversight in special needs institutions. Dehradun SP Pramod Kumar noted the facility’s lack of compliance with safety and staffing regulations, prompting a probe into its operations. The incident echoes concerns about inadequate monitoring, with X users questioning, “How are these schools allowed to function unchecked?” Authorities are now investigating other staff members and the school’s management to uncover any systemic failures that enabled such abuse.

Community Outrage and Calls for Action

The case has ignited public anger, with protests outside the school and demands for stricter regulations. The State Commission for Protection of Child Rights is assisting the investigation, ensuring the brothers receive medical and psychological support. X discussions highlight the need for safer environments for disabled children, with one user stating, “Our kids deserve protection, not predators.” Local NGOs are offering counseling to the family, who are grappling with trauma and distrust.

Protecting Vulnerable Children

This tragedy underscores the urgent need for robust safeguards in facilities for children with disabilities. Experts advocate for mandatory licensing, regular inspections, and trained staff to prevent abuse. The Dehradun incident, now a focal point on X, has spurred calls for a national policy to protect special needs children. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on justice for the brothers and preventing such horrors in the future.