Pune: A shocking case of molestation involving a schoolgirl has come to light in the Parvati locality of Pune. The incident occurred in the Janata Vasahat area, where an autorickshaw driver allegedly harassed a 14-year-old girl, leading to his arrest.

According to the police, the incident began when the girl, who was returning home from school, noticed the rickshaw driver making inappropriate advances towards her by staring through the rearview mirror.

The situation escalated when the driver followed her as she made her way back to school later that day. He intercepted her near the Janata Vasahat police outpost, and said "I like you. Let’s elope and get married. I will bear all the expenses for your further education." Despite the girl’s unwillingness, the driver repeatedly followed and harassed her.

The terrified girl reported the incident to her mother, who subsequently filed a complaint at the Parvati police station. Acting on the complaint, the Parvati police registered a case against the driver under charges of molestation and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses (POCSO) Act.

The investigation, led by Assistant Police Inspector Ghavate, revealed that the driver had repeatedly harassed the girl over a period of several days, from August 24 to 28. The police have since taken the driver into custody and are continuing their inquiries.

The incident has sparked outrage in the local community, raising concerns about the safety of schoolchildren in the area. The police have assured that stringent action will be taken to prevent such incidents in the future.