A disturbing case has come to light in Arunachal Pradesh’s Siang district, where the warden of a private school hostel has been arrested for allegedly sexually abusing students under his care. The accused, Hen Johnson Baithei, 33, was taken into custody following complaints from three children aged between six and 13, police confirmed on Wednesday.

According to Akai Chama, officer-in-charge of Mebo police station, the investigation is ongoing. “So far, three students have come forward with complaints and an FIR has been registered,” Chama said, adding that authorities are probing whether more students may have been victimized.

The case surfaced when one of the children complained of pain while using the school restroom and was taken home for medical attention. Medical professionals at the hospital suspected sexual abuse and alerted the police, triggering the investigation that led to Baithei’s arrest.

School officials expressed shock at the allegations, stating that Baithei had been perceived as a disciplined staff member. “I never imagined he could do something like this. The school will cooperate fully with the investigation and ensure such incidents never recur,” the principal said.

Authorities have begun recording statements from students, parents, hostel staff, and school management to establish the details of the alleged abuse. Meanwhile, the incident has sparked outrage among parents and the local community, with many demanding strict punishment for the accused and stronger safety protocols in residential schools to prevent such cases in the future.

The arrest underscores growing concerns about the safety of children in residential institutions and the need for robust monitoring mechanisms, staff vetting, and timely reporting procedures to protect vulnerable students. Police have assured the public that the investigation will be thorough and that all necessary measures will be taken to bring the accused to justice.