Viral video exposes alleged abuse at Saharanpur madrasa; two teachers held under POCSO

Two madrasa teachers in Uttar Pradesh’s Saharanpur have been arrested after a disturbing video allegedly showing the assault of a 10-year-old boy surfaced on social media, triggering police action and the invocation of stringent child protection laws.

According to the police, the video — though recorded nearly six months ago — came to light only on Friday, prompting immediate identification and arrest of the accused, both in their 30s. An FIR was registered on April 4.

The accused have been booked under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Section 115 (voluntarily causing hurt) and Section 131 (assault or criminal force), along with provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act.

Police officials said the video, recorded within the madrasa premises, shows one teacher allegedly striking the child with a stick while he cries in pain, as the second teacher appears to restrain him.

A local resident filed a formal complaint after recognizing the location in the footage as a madrasa near his home. Acting on the complaint and the viral clip, police traced and apprehended the two teachers.

During questioning, the accused reportedly claimed that the boy was punished for repeatedly running away from the madrasa and returning after intervals. They also alleged that the video had been recorded by another teacher, who later circulated it after leaving the institution.

Police said further investigation is underway to ascertain the full circumstances surrounding the incident and identify any additional individuals involved.