Saurashtra Samachar: has once again brought to light a deeply disturbing incident that has shaken parents, schools, and residents across the city. In a horrifying breach of trust, a school van driver has been arrested for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old Class 9 student inside the very vehicle meant to ensure her safety. The incident occurred in Rajkot’s Malviyanagar area and has raised serious concerns about the safety of children commuting to school.
According to police officials, the accused has been identified as Ramesh Kanabhai Khara, a resident of Khara village, who was operating a private school van. The victim, a minor studying in Class 9, was regularly travelling to and from school in the same vehicle. The accused was taken into custody after the girl bravely disclosed the crime to her family, leading to a formal police complaint.
Assault Took Place Inside the School Van
As per the police investigation, the incident occurred two days before the complaint was registered. After school hours, the accused allegedly convinced the girl to sit inside the van and diverted the vehicle from its regular route. He then drove her to a secluded, deserted area near Amin Marg, where he sexually assaulted her inside the van against her will.
Investigators revealed that the accused threatened the minor with severe consequences if she spoke about the incident to anyone. Out of fear, the girl initially remained silent, which allowed the accused to continue intimidating her.
The police have registered a case under multiple sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, along with other relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code. The accused has been sent for medical examination, and procedural formalities such as panchnama have been completed.
WhatsApp Calls and Messages Used to Harass the Minor
During the investigation, police uncovered that the accused had been harassing the girl for nearly a year. He allegedly obtained her mobile number and maintained contact with her through WhatsApp calls and messages. Officials stated that the communication began under the guise of concern but gradually turned inappropriate and threatening.
Sources close to the investigation said that the accused had previously molested the girl and used intimidation to ensure her silence. This prolonged harassment reportedly affected the child’s mental health, causing her to remain withdrawn and distressed at home.
Family’s Awareness Helped Expose the Crime
The incident came to light only after the family noticed a sudden change in the girl’s behaviour. Concerned by her emotional state, family members spoke to her at length, assuring her of support and protection. It was then that the minor gathered the courage to reveal the horrific ordeal.
The family immediately approached the police station and lodged a complaint, prompting swift action by law enforcement authorities. Senior police officials have praised the family’s awareness and the girl’s courage, stating that early reporting helped prevent further harm.
School Van Seized, Deeper Probe Underway
Police have seized the school van used in the crime. Shockingly, an inscription painted on the back of the vehicle read, “Loyalty is priceless, not everyone can afford it,” a message that has since drawn public outrage given the nature of the crime.
Further investigation revealed that the accused has a 12-year-old daughter of his own. Police have also confirmed that he was allegedly involved in an extramarital affair with another woman. Authorities are now examining whether the accused may have assaulted or harassed other schoolgirls who travelled in the same van.
Officials stated that several students used the van daily, and parents are being contacted as part of a wider inquiry. Statements are being recorded to determine whether this was an isolated incident or part of a larger pattern of abuse.
Rising Concerns Over Student Safety in Rajkot
This case has sparked widespread concern among parents across the city. Many families are now questioning the background checks and monitoring of private school transport operators. Education experts and child rights activists have called for stricter regulations, mandatory police verification, and GPS tracking for school vans.
Local authorities have assured residents that inspections of school transport services will be intensified. Police officials have also urged parents to maintain open communication with their children and immediately report any suspicious behaviour.
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Separate Case Highlights Online Exploitation of Minors
In another alarming incident linked to Rajkot News, police are investigating a case where a minor girl from Rajkot was allegedly lured into a relationship through social media. The accused reportedly trapped the girl through Instagram, took her to locations including Junagadh, Mumbai, and Goa, and sexually assaulted her over an extended period.
According to reports, the girl was taken away nearly a month ago before the accused’s mother eventually brought her back home. Police are now examining digital evidence and travel records as part of the investigation.
A Wake-Up Call for Society
These incidents serve as a grim reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by minors, both offline and online. Law enforcement officials have emphasized the need for collective vigilance, stronger child protection mechanisms, and immediate reporting of abuse.
As Saurashtra Samachar continues to follow developments in these cases, authorities have assured strict action against all those found guilty. Meanwhile, the community is being urged to prioritise child safety and ensure that trust is never misplaced when it comes to the well-being of young students.
