Guwahati, May 08: A doctor couple in Guwahati being arrested for the alleged abuse of their four-year-old adopted daughter has sparked outrage in the local community.
Sangeeta Dutta, a well-known psychiatrist, was apprehended from a hideout in the Ri-Bhoi district of Meghalaya, two days after her husband, Walliul Islam, a gastrointestinal surgeon, was taken into custody.
The couple was charged with tying the child to a post on the terrace of their residential building in Manipuri Basti, exposing her to the scorching summer heat and causing burn injuries to her private parts.
The incident came to light when a neighbor reported the matter to the police, claiming that the child was being subjected to torture. The police registered a case against the couple under Sections 307, 325, 341, and 34 of the IPC, as well as Section 75 of the Juvenile Justice Act. The couple’s housemaid was also taken into custody for her alleged role in the abuse.
During interrogation, Dutta initially denied the allegations, claiming that it was a conspiracy to ruin her career and that of her husband. However, she later confessed to the crime, stating that the child was tied to the post as a punishment for being “disobedient and naughty”. The police are also investigating whether the couple followed proper adoption protocols when they adopted the child.
Also Read: Manipur Appoints Vineet Joshi as New Chief Secretary, Calls Him Back from Delhi
The incident has sparked a debate about the safety of adopted children and the need for stricter adoption laws. While adoption can be a wonderful way to provide a home for children in need, it is essential to ensure that the prospective parents are well-equipped to handle the responsibilities that come with it.
In this case, it appears that the couple was not adequately prepared for the challenges of raising a child and resorted to abusive measures to discipline her.
The incident also highlights the importance of reporting child abuse and the role of neighbors and community members in protecting vulnerable children. It takes courage to report suspected child abuse, but it is crucial to ensure that children are protected and that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.
The Guwahati doctor couple’s case serves as a stark reminder that child abuse can occur in any household, regardless of the social status or professional background of the parents. It is up to us as a society to ensure that children are safe and protected and that those who harm them are brought to justice.
In conclusion, it is essential to ensure that adoption laws are enforced and that prospective parents undergo proper training and evaluation before being allowed to adopt a child. Additionally, it is vital to promote awareness about child abuse and the importance of reporting suspected cases. Only through collective efforts can we create a safe and nurturing environment for all children.
