Gyalshing, Sikkim – April 12, 2025: A pall of shock and outrage has descended upon Gyalshing following the arrest of multiple individuals, including adults and juveniles, in connection with the repeated sexual assault of a 13-year-old girl. The disturbing case came to light after authorities at a local government school raised concerns with the Child Welfare Committee (CWC), prompting a series of revelations during counseling sessions with the young victim.
According to sources within the CWC, the 13-year-old bravely disclosed a harrowing ordeal of sustained abuse. The initial disclosure implicated her neighbor, identified as Pema Uden Bhutia, who allegedly lured the victim to her residence under the guise of household chores. It is alleged that Bhutia then coerced the young girl into sexual acts with her husband, Kamal Gurung.
The victim’s testimony further unveiled a chilling network of exploitation. She alleged that Pema Uden Bhutia not only witnessed the abuse but also actively facilitated further assaults by arranging for other men, identified as Santosh Kumar Gupta and Naresh Sahni, to sexually assault her in exchange for monetary compensation. The victim also named four juveniles who allegedly subjected her to similar abuse throughout 2024 and 2025.
Prompted by the gravity of the disclosures, the Gyalshing Police swiftly registered a First Information Report (FIR No. 05/2025) on April 10th. The charges levied against the accused include serious offenses under Sections 64, 98, 99, and 351(2), read with Section 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, along with relevant sections of the stringent Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, specifically Sections 3, 4, 5(1)(l), and 6.
Police sources have confirmed that arrests have been made in connection with the case, and investigations are currently underway to gather further evidence and ascertain the full extent of the exploitation. The identities of the arrested juveniles have not been disclosed in accordance with the law.
The incident has ignited widespread condemnation within the local community, with residents expressing their anguish and demanding swift and stringent justice for the young victim. Local NGOs and women’s rights organizations have voiced their support for the survivor and are advocating for comprehensive support and rehabilitation measures.
Authorities have assured the public that a thorough and impartial investigation will be conducted to ensure that all those involved are brought to justice. The CWC is currently providing the victim with necessary medical, psychological, and emotional support.
This deeply distressing case serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of children and the critical need for vigilance and proactive measures to safeguard them from such heinous crimes. The community now awaits the outcome of the investigation, hoping for a swift and decisive legal process that delivers justice to the young survivor and sends a strong message against child sexual abuse.