Haripur Madressah Teacher Arrested for Alleged Sexual Abuse of Student in KP

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In a disturbing incident, Haripur police in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) arrested a madressah teacher on July 17, 2025, for allegedly sexually abusing a visually impaired five-year-old student. The swift action by law enforcement highlights a commitment to justice amid growing concerns over child safety in educational institutions. This article examines the case, the police response, and the broader implications for protecting vulnerable children in Pakistan.

The arrest took place in Haripur’s Saddar police station jurisdiction, following a complaint that shocked the local community. According to District Police Officer (DPO) Farhan Khan, the suspect was apprehended after a rapid investigation prompted by the allegations. “We acted immediately to ensure the accused faced justice,” Khan stated, as reported by Dawn. The victim, a young child with visual impairments, underscores the heinous nature of the crime and the urgent need for stringent oversight in religious seminaries. The case has sparked outrage, with voices on social media, including journalist Mariana Baabar, calling on religious leaders to condemn such acts and address systemic issues within madressahs.

The Haripur police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) under Section 53 of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Child Protection and Welfare Act (CPWA), which addresses sexual abuse. A medical examination of the victim is underway to gather evidence, ensuring a thorough legal process. This incident follows a troubling pattern in KP, with similar cases reported in Shangla and Abbottabad in recent weeks, pointing to a pressing need for reform in educational settings. The KP government’s focus on child protection, backed by robust legal frameworks like the CPWA, signals a resolve to tackle such crimes head-on.

This case exposes the vulnerabilities in Pakistan’s educational institutions, particularly in under-regulated madressahs, where trust is often exploited. The arrest reflects a no-tolerance stance by authorities, contrasting with past instances of leniency that have drawn criticism. As the nation grapples with these challenges, the Haripur incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance, accountability, and stronger safeguards to protect children, ensuring justice prevails and predators face the full force of the law.