Gurgaon horror: 3.5-year-old raped, strangled to death by neighbour
Times of India
by NIKHIL SHARMAFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A shocking and heartbreaking incident occurred in Gurgaon when a 3.5-year-old girl was raped and strangled to death by her neighbour. The crime took place after the suspect lured the child away from her neighbourhood late at night on February 19. Police responded swiftly, arresting the accused just hours later based on a complaint filed by the victim's father.
The suspect, identified as Shivnath (25), a native of Bihar working in a scrap factory in Sector-37, admitted during interrogation to taking the child to an isolated location where he committed the heinous act. He then attempted to destroy evidence by strangling her and leaving her body in a concealed spot. The police spokesperson revealed that the family first reported their daughter missing around 12:20 am on February 20, prompting an immediate investigation.
The case has sent shockwaves through Gurgaon and beyond, highlighting the vulnerability of children and the need for stronger measures to protect them. It underscores the importance of vigilance in communities and the urgent call for justice in such tragedies. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by children, even within familiar surroundings, and the critical role of law enforcement in responding effectively to such crimes.
The arrest of Shivnath has brought some solace to the victim's family, though nothing can alleviate their grief. The case is under investigation at Police Station Sector-37, with charges filed under relevant sections of the penal code. This heartbreaking event not only devastates a family but also resonates globally, emphasizing the need for stricter child protection laws and community awareness to prevent such atrocities in the future.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/20/2026