Chilli Powder Thrown In Eyes, Palms Burned: 7-Yr-Old Boy Tortured By Own Father

Last Updated:December 12, 2025, 15:01 IST

It is alleged that chilli powder was thrown into the boy’s eyes, causing intense pain and swelling. Doctors treating the child have reported visible burn marks on his palms.

Investigators are also recording statements from doctors, neighbours and family members as part of the probe.(Representative Image: Canva)

A disturbing case of alleged child abuse has emerged from Hegade village in Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, where a 7-year-old boy was reportedly subjected to severe physical torture by his own father. The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community and raised renewed concerns over child safety in cases of parental separation.

The accused has been identified as Vijay Nayak, the biological father of the child. According to the complaint, the boy was allegedly tortured inside the house, prompting the child’s mother to seek police protection and rush her son to hospital for treatment.

Allegations of Severe Physical Abuse

Police sources and hospital authorities say the child was subjected to extreme cruelty. It is alleged that chilli powder was thrown into the boy’s eyes, causing intense pain and swelling. Doctors treating the child have reported visible burn marks on his palms, allegedly inflicted using a hot object.

Apart from these injuries, other marks of physical abuse were also found on the child’s body during medical examination. Doctors have stated that while the injuries are serious, the child is currently stable and undergoing treatment.

The nature of the injuries has deeply disturbed both medical staff and local residents.

Family Background and Custody Dispute

According to information available with the police, Vijay Nayak had married Chitra Nayak around 13 years ago. The couple later divorced, and as per court orders, custody of their two children was granted to the father.

However, after the divorce, Vijay Nayak reportedly began living with another woman. Against this backdrop, the mother has alleged that the children were being subjected to repeated physical and mental abuse while living with their father.

Locals claim that tensions between the estranged couple had continued for years, and there are allegations that the children were caught in the middle of these disputes.

Mother Seeks Police Protection

After learning about the alleged torture, the child’s mother approached the police seeking immediate protection for her son. She also admitted the boy to hospital to ensure he received urgent medical care.

Police officials said the mother has formally requested custody of the child, citing safety concerns. The matter is expected to be placed before the court, which will take a decision regarding custody based on the investigation and medical reports.

Police Action and Legal Provisions

The Kumta Police have registered a case in connection with the incident and taken Vijay Nayak into custody for questioning. An investigation is currently underway to determine the sequence of events and the extent of abuse.

Police officials confirmed that the case has been booked under provisions of the POCSO Act and the Juvenile Justice Act, both of which deal with crimes against children. They stated that the alleged acts constitute serious offences and that strict legal action will be taken if the charges are proven.

Investigators are also recording statements from doctors, neighbours and family members as part of the probe.

Community Reaction and Wider Concerns

The incident has triggered outrage among local residents and social organisations, who have demanded stringent punishment for the accused. Many have expressed concern over the increasing number of cases where children become victims amid marital disputes and custody battles.

Women’s groups and child rights activists have called for stronger monitoring of child welfare in post-divorce custody arrangements. They have also urged authorities to ensure counselling and support mechanisms for children living in vulnerable family situations.

Call for Child Protection Measures

Officials acknowledge that the state is already dealing with a large number of cases under the POCSO Act, highlighting the need for greater awareness and early intervention to prevent child abuse.

The incident has renewed calls for the government and social organisations to strengthen child protection systems, ensure timely action on complaints, and provide medical and psychological support to affected children.

As the investigation continues, the focus remains on the child’s recovery and safety. Police have assured that the case will be pursued without delay and that all legal steps will be taken to ensure justice.

For the mother, the immediate concern is her son’s health and protection. For the community, the case stands as a grim reminder of the responsibility adults bear in safeguarding children, regardless of personal conflicts or disputes.

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