In a deeply disturbing incident, a 12-year-old boy was found chained and locked inside his own house by his parents for nearly two months in South Nagpur. The parents allegedly took this extreme step to control what they described as their son’s “misbehaviour” and habit of stealing mobile phones. The child was rescued on Friday following a tip-off to the Child Helpline number 1098. According to sources, the boy, a school dropout, was living in inhuman conditions. When the rescue team reached the house at around 3 pm, they found the minor with his hands and legs tied with iron chains and ropes. He was reportedly standing on a plastic bucket, as his movement was severely restricted. His parents, both daily wage labourers, allegedly tied him every morning around 9 am before leaving for work and left him locked inside the house until they returned in the evening. 

 

 

Officials said the injuries seen on the boy’s hands and legs appeared to be at least two to three months old which indicate prolonged physical abuse. Visible wounds and swelling clearly showed the impact of continuous chaining. The boy was frightened, weak and mentally distressed when found, said officials. Sources revealed that the child had behavioural issues and was involved in petty thefts, mainly stealing mobile phones. Ajni police station had reportedly been alerted on two earlier occasions about the boy’s behaviour. Instead of seeking professional help, counselling, or support from child welfare authorities, the parents discontinued his education and chose to restrain him physically. “The parents said they were helpless. They claimed the boy would run away from home, steal phones, and not listen to them,” a police official said. “Since they had to go out daily for labour work, they decided to tie him and leave him locked at home. This is a serious violation of child rights.” 

 

 

The matter came to light after concerned residents informed the Child Helpline. Realising the seriousness of the complaint, the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU) under the Women and Child Development Department acted immediately. A special team was formed. The team rushed to the spot along with the police and rescued the child. He was immediately shifted to a safe location. A medical examination confirmed injuries on his hands and legs caused by chains and ropes, along with signs of physical and mental trauma. The boy has now been admitted to a children’s home, where he is receiving medical treatment and counselling. Officials said counselling sessions have started to help him recover from the psychological impact of the abuse.

 

 

A complaint has been filed against the parents at Ajni police station. Police are examining the case under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, and other relevant sections related to cruelty and violation of child rights.