12-Year-Old Boy Rescued in Chains in Nagpur, Exposing Shocking Child Abuse and System Failure

Parents Accused of Daily Chaining Child to Prevent Him From Running Away and Petty Theft.

A horrifying case of child abuse has come to light in South Nagpur, where a 12-year-old boy was kept chained and locked inside his own home for nearly two to three months, leaving him physically injured and mentally traumatized.

Rescued on Friday, January 2, 2026, after a tip-off to Child Helpline 1098, the boy was found shackled with iron chains and ropes that had caused deep wounds and bruises, standing on a bucket in a state of terror.

His parents, both daily-wage labourers, allegedly claimed they were trying to control his behaviour, including running away and petty theft, but authorities stressed that poverty or misbehaviour can never justify abuse.

The incident exposes a failure of early intervention, as prior complaints had not been acted upon. The child has been shifted to a government shelter for medical care and psychological counselling, while a case has been registered against the parents under the Juvenile Justice Act, and the Child Welfare Committee will determine his rehabilitation, education, and long-term care.