While going to collect wood in an orchard, an 11-year-old Dalit girl, who was innocent and unknowing, was brutally molested and raped by the orchard's caretaker in Patna. Her mother had already passed away, and her father was working in another state. She was a student at a government school and lived with her brother and grandmother. Her family reported that she went to collect wood at around 4 p.m. on August 26, 2025, and was found hanging from a guava tree near the river by locals the following day. The innocent girl's death at such a young age, where she was unaware of concepts like rape and her dreams, expectations and potential all ended, has been marked by widespread protests and candlelight marches. The local people of Patna are now scared about the growing concerns for child safety after previously reported incidents, such as the one mentioned by The Indian Express, about two dead bodies of children being found in the back of a classroom.

Police Investigation and Suspect Arrested 

The police investigation confirmed that the girl had returned home carrying wood and then went out again. Her family grew fearful and suspicious when she did not return after an hour. The next day, her body was found near the river, and the police were informed by locals. The post-mortem report could be a major source of evidence. However, the SP Incharge, Bhanu Pratap Singh, highlighted the difficulty in recovering the body due to the rising levels of the River Ganga and promised to take strict action. Bhola Rai, the caretaker of the orchard, emerged as the main suspect after CCTV footage revealed previous instances of him molesting the girl. He had not only molested her but, to hide the evidence, also hung her from the guava tree. His attempt to lead her down another route was discovered in the footage. While the forensic team and dog squad continue their investigation, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed.

Reactions by the Locals, Protests and Marches

Locals, who informed the police after finding the body the next day, also reported that the suspect was evasive while they were searching for the girl. Fear has developed among the local people regarding the rising number of murders and rapes in Bihar. Protests continue to take place. According to Times of India , when the suspect was being taken to the Maner Police Station, protestors demanded that the police hand the accused over to them. Police officials controlled the situation and asked the public to calm down. As covered by ANI News , protests were also organized at the Maner Police Station. A candlelight march was held, proceeding from the girl’s house through different neighborhoods (mohallas) to the Maner Police Station, to pay tribute and demand justice for her.