‘Beaten, eyes swollen, vomiting, dizzy’: Father recalls 3-year-old’s ordeal at Delhi playschool - The Times of India

**Delhi Playschool Assault: Father Describes Child’s Trauma**

A three‑year‑old boy was allegedly subjected to a violent episode at a private playschool in Delhi’s North Delhi district, according to a statement made by his father to the police on Thursday. The child, who was being cared for during the early‑morning drop‑off, was reportedly tied to a chair, beaten with a stick, and left with swollen eyes, persistent vomiting and dizziness. “He was crying, his eyes were swollen, he kept vomiting and felt dizzy. He was terrified of us after that,” the father said, describing the physical and emotional impact on his son. The incident is said to have taken place on 25 August, and the child was taken to a nearby hospital where he received medical attention for bruises and dehydration.

Following the father’s complaint, Delhi Police recovered CCTV footage that appears to show staff members dragging the child, restraining him with a rope, and striking him repeatedly. The footage prompted the filing of a First Information Report (FIR) under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, leading to the arrest of the playschool’s principal and three other employees. One suspect remains at large, while the remaining three have been remanded in custody. Police spokesperson Anil Sharma confirmed that a forensic examination of the child’s injuries has been conducted and that the case will be forwarded to the Juvenile Justice Board for further adjudication.

The incident has sparked outrage among parents and child‑rights groups, who are demanding stricter oversight of early‑childhood institutions in the capital. The Delhi Administration has announced an immediate audit of all licensed day‑care centres and has urged parents to report any irregularities. In response, the playschool’s management issued a statement expressing “deep regret” and pledging full cooperation with investigators, while insisting that the accused staff members acted “in contravention of established protocols.” The case is expected to be heard in court in the coming weeks, with legal experts warning that violations of the POCSO Act carry severe penalties.