Minor domestic help rescued with burn injuries in Bhubaneswar, employer detained

**Bhubaneswar Child Domestic Help Rescued with Burn Injuries Employer Detained Omni 360 News Key Takeaways**

Bhubaneswar, Odisha – In a deeply disturbing incident that has shaken the community, a twelve-year-old domestic help was successfully rescued from alleged severe abuse in the Sailashree Vihar area of Bhubaneswar. The child, found with multiple burn marks and assault injuries, has been placed under care as authorities pursue a thorough investigation into her employer. This rescue highlights the persistent challenge of child labor and abuse, even in urban settings.

The plight of the young girl came to light on March 26, following an alert from Childline, a national helpline for children in distress. Acting swiftly on the information, a collaborative team comprising personnel from Childline, Chandrashekharpur police, and the Labour Department descended upon a residence in Sailashree Vihar. What they discovered was a harrowing tale of alleged mistreatment.

Upon arrival, officials found the young girl bearing visible marks of severe physical abuse. According to initial reports from those involved in the rescue, she had fresh burn injuries on her hands and other parts of her body, alongside multiple cuts and bruises, including a reported “chopping injury” on one of her fingers. These injuries painted a grim picture of sustained suffering. Local reports suggest that the burns were allegedly inflicted using a hot spatula, a chilling detail that underscores the severity of the alleged cruelty.

Following the rescue, the girl was immediately taken for a comprehensive medical examination at Capital Hospital in Bhubaneswar. Medical professionals are assessing the full extent of her injuries and ensuring she receives the necessary physical and psychological care. After medical attention, she was moved to a short-stay home, providing her with a safe and supportive environment away from the alleged abuse. Authorities have also begun the process of connecting with her family, who hail from the Khurda district.

The employer, identified as Rashmi Rekha Das, a resident of Sailashree Vihar, was promptly detained by the Chandrashekharpur police for questioning. A case has been registered against her under several pertinent sections of the law. These include Sections 323 (voluntarily causing hurt), 324 (voluntarily causing hurt by dangerous weapons or means), and 342 (wrongful confinement) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Additionally, sections of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, and the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986, have been invoked, reflecting the dual nature of the alleged crime – both abuse and illegal child employment.

Investigations reveal that the young girl had reportedly been working at the residence for approximately one to one and a half years. During this period, she was allegedly made to perform arduous household chores, including washing vehicles, often working for long hours – reportedly 16 to 18 hours daily – and sometimes denied adequate food. While a monthly payment of ₹5,000 was reportedly agreed upon, local news sources suggest it was not paid regularly, further exacerbating her vulnerability.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the hidden dangers faced by countless children employed as domestic help across the country. Child labor is not only illegal but also robs children of their fundamental rights to education, safety, and a healthy childhood. Cases like these underscore the critical need for constant vigilance from communities, neighbors, and civil society organizations. The laws are in place to protect children, but their effective implementation often relies on public awareness and timely reporting.

The prompt action by Childline and the police in this instance prevented further harm to the child, demonstrating the importance of collaborative efforts in child protection. As Omni 360 News continues to follow this developing story, the focus remains on ensuring justice for the young victim and raising awareness about the societal menace of child abuse and labor.

Key Takeaways:
* A 12-year-old domestic help was rescued in Bhubaneswar’s Sailashree Vihar with significant burn and assault injuries.
* The employer, Rashmi Rekha Das, has been detained, and a case filed under IPC, Juvenile Justice Act, and Child Labour Act.
* The child is receiving medical care and support at a shelter home.
* The incident highlights the ongoing challenges of child labor and abuse, emphasizing the need for community vigilance and strict enforcement of protective laws.