New Delhi: Just 14 years old, Dalit social media content creator Nishu Azad is receiving open rape threats. Earlier, during the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest at Jantar Mantar, her father was brutally attacked by an organised group. The attacker used a heavy metal kada (bracelet) to repeatedly strike his head, splitting it open in three places and requiring emergency stitches. Nishu is now in trauma, and the family is desperately appealing for justice and security.

Nishu was actively involved in the CJP movement demanding education reforms. She and her father had earlier issued a joint statement declaring their socio-religious separation from Hinduism, clearly stating that they do not identify as Hindu. The statement went viral, triggering massive outrage among conservative groups. What began as online trolling soon turned into physical violence.

On 23 June, while Nishu’s father was peacefully recording footage at Jantar Mantar, a mob of around 15 men ambushed him. One attacker struck the camera and then removed his kada to rain blows on the father’s head, causing deep injuries. Nishu later released an emotional video identifying the accused, who were still casually walking around in the high-security zone. She stated that the attack was a direct result of their statement and her active role in the CJP protest.

Following the assault, individuals including one identified as Gaurav Hindu have been giving Nishu rape threats. In a tearful video released on June 30, Nishu appealed to Delhi Police for help. She said:

“I am going into trauma… I have been tolerating this for 3 days. People are abusing me saying you won’t live long… Gaurav Hindu is threatening me… giving such threats that I don’t even want to repeat. I am not scared but I am going into trauma. Is showing the truth a crime...following Ambedkar’s ideas comes with a heavy price. Police is not taking any action… What should I do? How many FIRs should I file?”

Her video has gone viral, with many Bahujan voices and social media users demanding the immediate arrest of those giving rape threats and casteist abuses to a minor girl.

What Does the Law Say?

Indian law is extremely strict against sexual threats to minors. Nishu, being a 14-year-old minor from the Dalit community, is protected under several stringent provisions:

POCSO Act 2012: Sexual threats or harassment against a child below 18 years is punishable under Sections 11 and 12. Punishment can range from 3 to 5 years imprisonment plus fine. If the intent is clearly sexual, the offence is treated more seriously.

SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act: Since Nishu belongs to the Dalit community, any caste-based insult or threat attracts provisions of this Act, which provides additional protection and faster trials.

BNS Section 75 for sexual harassment, Section 351 criminal intimidation and Section 79 insult to the modesty of a woman can also be applied.

IT Act: Threats given on social media can attract punishment.

The victim or guardian can file a written complaint at the police station. Delhi Police must register an FIR immediately. POCSO cases mandate time-bound investigation and child-friendly court proceedings. Key evidence includes screenshots, videos, messages, and witness statements.