A case has come to light in Delhi where a young man named ‘Gaurav Hindu’ publicly threatened and abused a minor. Nishu appealed to the Delhi Police for help in a video released on June 30.
Delhi – Nishu Azad, a 14-year-old Dalit social media creator, is receiving open rape threats. Earlier, during the CJP’s Jantar Mantar protest, her father was attacked in an organized attack, his head was torn apart with a rod, and he received stitches in three places. Nishu is in trauma, and the family is pleading for justice and protection. Nishu Azad was active in the CJP movement. She and her father had declared themselves separate from Hinduism. They clearly stated that they do not consider themselves Hindus. This statement went viral on social media, sparking widespread outrage among conservative groups. This led to online trolling and then a physical attack.
On June 23rd, Nishu’s father was recording a video at Jantar Mantar when a gang of about 15 people attacked him. One attacker smashed the camera, then took out a bracelet and repeatedly struck him on the head, causing deep injuries to three parts of his head.
Following the attack, Nishu Azad released an emotional video, identifying the accused, who were roaming in the high-security zone. She stated that the attack was carried out because of her statements and her active participation in the CJP protests. Now, Nishu is receiving repeated rape threats from individuals, including Gaurav Hindu.
In a video released on June 30th, Nishu herself appealed to the Delhi Police for help. In her video, Nishu says, “I’m in trauma. I’ve been tolerating this for three days… People are abusing me, saying I won’t live long… Gaurav Hindu is threatening me… I don’t want to speak for myself… He’s making such threats.” Crying, Nishu continues, “I’m not scared, but I’m in trauma… Can showing people the truth and telling them the truth… Can following Ambedkar’s ideals be so costly? The police aren’t taking any action on this.” Expressing her helplessness, Nishu asks what she should do, against whom should she file an FIR. Following Nishu’s video, several Bahujan handles have voiced their support. Social media users are demanding the arrest of the accused who made rape threats and casteist abuses against the minor.
What the Law Says: Strict Provisions on Rape Threats
Indian law is very strict on the abuse of minor children. Any accused who openly made rape threats to a 14-year-old Dalit content creator like Nishu Azad can be charged with several serious sections.
Sexual threats or attempts to commit a crime against a minor (under 18 years of age) also fall under the POCSO Act. Threats of rape are punishable under Sections 11 (sexual harassment) and 12 (criminal intimidation). The punishment can be a minimum of 3 to 5 years in prison and a fine. If the threat clearly contains sexual intent, it is considered more serious.
Since Nishu belongs to the Dalit community, if the threat involves caste-based insults or hatred, sections of the SC/ST Act can also be invoked. This Act provides additional protection and speedy trial for such crimes.
Action can also be taken for rape threats made on social media. The victim or their guardian can file a written complaint at the police station. Delhi Police should immediately register an FIR. POCSO cases require timely investigation and trial in a child-friendly court. Screenshots, videos, messages, and witness statements are important as evidence.
Geetha Sunil Pillai
Courtesy: Hindi News