Girl Fights Off Zilla Parishad Staffer’s Molestation Attempt, Slaps Him and Rushes to Police A 17-year-old girl in Palghar, Maharashtra, confronted a 45-year-old Zilla Parishad employee who allegedly attempted to molest her under the guise of providing scholarship information. The incident occurred on April 1 when the girl, accompanied by her sister, visited the education department of the Zilla Parishad office. During their interaction, the accused staffer allegedly touched her inappropriately while posing as a helper with scholarship details. The girl resisted the advances, reportedly slapped the accused, and immediately reported the incident to the Palghar police station. The police registered a case against the accused under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. Zilla Parishad Chief Executive Officer Manoj Ranade assured an investigation into the matter, stating that the employee in question was a “good worker” and that the administration would not shield him if found guilty. Ranade emphasized that the Vishaka Committee, which handles workplace sexual harassment, would examine the case alongside an internal probe. “If any wrongdoing is established, strict action will definitely be taken,” he said. The incident has sparked discussions about workplace safety and the protection of minors. The girl’s swift action in confronting the accused and seeking legal recourse highlights the importance of reporting such crimes. Authorities have urged victims to come forward and emphasized that the legal system is equipped to address such cases. The case also underscores the need for stricter oversight within public institutions to prevent abuse of power.#palghar #zilla_parishad #manoj_ranade #vishaka_committee #poCSO_act
