Photo used for indicative purpose only. Source: Internet
Shimla, Aug 20,
The Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly on Wednesday witnessed heated concern over the alleged molestation of a minor girl at an orphanage in Bharmour, Chamba district. The shocking incident was raised by local MLA Dr. Janak Raj, who held the Single Line Administration responsible for “gross negligence” and demanded immediate corrective measures to safeguard children in state-run and private orphanages.
Dr. Raj said the crime had deeply shaken public trust, exposing serious loopholes in the monitoring of child care institutions, especially those operating in remote tribal belts. “The government must strengthen inspections, ensure accountability of officials and put in place strict security arrangements at such homes,” he urged.
Responding to the issue, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu informed the House that an FIR had already been registered and investigation was underway. While assuring that the guilty would be punished, he said disclosing detailed case information in the Assembly could compromise the probe. “Members can obtain case-specific updates directly from the investigating officer,” he clarified.
Health Minister Dhani Ram Shandil also confirmed the registration of the FIR and reiterated the government’s resolve to take stringent action. “The matter is being taken very seriously and strict measures will follow based on the investigation’s outcome,” he said.
The incident has triggered demands for a comprehensive review of child safety in orphanages across Himachal Pradesh, with legislators and citizens alike pressing for stronger checks to prevent such crimes in the future.
The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.
