Three-Year-Old Dalit Girl Sexually Assaulted in Jodhpur: Suspect Arrested and Rising Concerns Over SC-ST Women Safety in Rajasthan

Jaipur: In a deeply disturbing incident from Rajasthan's Jodhpur, a three-year-old Dalit girl was sexually assaulted by a man acquainted with her family. The perpetrator, identified as Sajid Khan, enticed the young victim with snacks and took her to a field nearby where he committed the heinous act before abandoning the injured child close to her residence.

Upon discovering their daughter in tears, the family, with assistance from local villagers, rushed her to a medical facility. As her health deteriorated, medical professionals transferred her to Jodhpur for specialized care. During the initial examination, doctors identified evidence of sexual assault and promptly notified law enforcement authorities.

Khan attempted to flee to Bharatpur but was apprehended in Pali district. Initial investigations revealed that the suspect had a pornography addiction and reportedly viewed approximately 15 explicit videos prior to committing the offense.

The child's condition remains critical as medical teams continue treatment efforts.

This incident has sparked widespread condemnation across the state.

Opposition figures, including former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and Opposition Leader Tikaram Jully, have criticized the current administration for the worsening security situation and increasing violence against women, particularly those from Dalit and tribal communities.

Official statistics presented in the Rajasthan Assembly indicate that between January 1, 2024, and January 31, 2025, authorities registered 763 rape cases involving SC-ST women throughout the state. Jaipur reported the highest incidence with 104 cases, followed by Ganganagar (60), Alwar (38), Hanumangarh (36), Jodhpur (31), and Sikar (29).

Of the total reported cases, law enforcement has filed charge sheets in 333 instances and registered FIRs in 410.