CHENNAI: An anganwadi worker in Tenkasi district has been suspended and arrested after a video allegedly showing her harassing a two-and-a-half-year-old girl by covering the child with a sack surfaced on social media and triggered public outrage.
According to a Maalaimalar report, the incident occurred at an anganwadi centre located near Vennimalai Murugan Temple in Pavoorchatram. The accused, identified as Kalaichelvi, was employed as a worker at the centre.
According to officials, a video of the alleged abuse went viral on social media, prompting demands from child rights activists and members of the public for strict action against the worker. The footage reportedly showed the toddler being subjected to distressing treatment inside the anganwadi centre.
Acting on the incident, Tenkasi District Collector Ranjith Singh ordered the suspension of Kalaichelvi. The Collector also directed anganwadi staff across the district to ensure the safety and well-being of children under their care and emphasised the need to provide a nurturing learning environment.
Warning against any form of child abuse, the Collector stated that stringent action would be taken against anyone found mistreating children in educational or childcare institutions.
Meanwhile, based on a complaint lodged by the child's mother, Pavoorchatram police registered a case against Kalaichelvi and arrested her. Further investigation is under way.