Differently-Abled Teen in Karnataka Assaulted, Beaten With Plastic Pipe and Chilli Thrown in Eyes

A shocking case of alleged abuse has surfaced from Karnataka's Bagalkot district, where a 16-year-old differently-abled boy was reportedly assaulted inside a residential school meant for children with special needs.

The incident came to light after a disturbing video of the assault circulated on social media, triggering public outrage and police action.

Disturbing Video Exposes Assault Inside School

The incident reportedly took place at the Divyajyoti School for Differently Abled Children, located in the Navanagar area of Bagalkot. The video shows the teenager being repeatedly beaten with a belt and a plastic pipe. Despite collapsing to the floor in pain, the assault continues, with the boy's legs allegedly restrained as he cries out for help.

What has further fuelled anger is the behaviour of the individual recording the video, who can be heard laughing instead of intervening to stop the violence.

Accused Identified, Chilli Powder Thrown in Victim's Eyes

Police have identified Akshay Indulkar as the main accused, alleging that he led the attack. His wife, Anandi, is also seen in the footage allegedly throwing chilli powder into the boy's eyes, escalating the brutality of the assault.

The visual evidence has raised serious concerns about the safety of vulnerable children housed in institutions meant for their care and protection.

Video Leaked by Former Employee, Parents File Complaint

According to sources, the video was leaked by a former employee of the school, which brought the incident into public view. Following the circulation of the footage, the victim's parents lodged a formal complaint with the police.

An FIR has since been registered, and Akshay Indulkar, his wife, and two other individuals associated with the institution have been detained for questioning as part of the investigation.

Questions Raised Over Safety and Oversight at Special Schools

The incident has sparked widespread concern among parents and disability rights advocates, who are questioning the level of monitoring, accountability, and safeguarding measures in residential institutions for children with disabilities.

Authorities are expected to examine whether there were systemic failures in supervision and whether stricter oversight mechanisms are needed to prevent such incidents in the future.