Nagpur: A series of recent cases across Maharashtra has exposed a troubling pattern of grooming and exploitation of minor girls, with police warning about the growing misuse of classmates and social media to target vulnerable teenagers.
According to police sources, sexual predators often use a victim’s classmate or mutual acquaintance to initiate contact and build trust. This connection is later used to manipulate and exploit the emotional vulnerabilities of minors, particularly those who are socially isolated or dependent on online validation.
In one case, the Sadar Police Station registered an offence after a 13-year-old girl was allegedly sexually assaulted by a 28-year-old Karan Keshi who had groomed her online. The incident came to light after the girl’s school sent an absence alert to her parents, prompting them to investigate. The accused has been arrested.
Another incident in Sitabuldi highlights how peer networks are being misused. A 16-year-old boy was allegedly kidnapped and assaulted by known acquaintance following a dispute involving a girl. Police said the accused tracked the victim through known contacts, forcibly took him to Mominpura, and assaulted him while recording the act. A complaint has been registered at Sitabuldi Police Station.
In a major breakthrough in Amravati district, Paratwada Police have arrested eight individuals in connection with the circulation of obscene videos involving minor girls. The prime accused, Ayan Ahmed Tanveer Ahmed (19), allegedly sexually exploited victims at a rented house and recorded explicit videos. Police said his mobile phone contained multiple videos and photographs involving at least eight victims.
Subsequent investigation led to the arrest of several others, including Manav Deepak Sugandhe (20), Aifaz Khan Manjur Khan (26), Mohammad Imran Mohammad Sajid (21), and Sheikh Naved Sheikh Hasan (21), for allegedly circulating the content on social media. The case surfaced on April 11, 2026, after objectionable videos went viral. Police have also seized multiple electronic devices for forensic analysis.
Psychiatrists point out that emotional distance from families, isolation, and excessive reliance on social media for validation are key factors that make minors susceptible to such grooming tactics. Experts warn that predators deliberately exploit these vulnerabilities to gain trust and manipulate victims.
Police have urged parents to closely monitor their children’s online activity and social circles. Authorities have also appealed to victims and their families to come forward without fear, assuring confidentiality and strict action against the accused.
