Nainital Police have registered a case in Haldwani after a cyber tipline flagged 11 serious complaints linked to alleged child sexual abuse and cybercrime. The investigation concerns a minor accused of allegedly abusing a neighbouring child, recording the incident and uploading the video online.

Police said the case was registered at Haldwani Kotwali as FIR number 373/2026 under Sections 14/15 of the POCSO Act and Section 67(B) of the Information Technology Act. The case involves allegations, and the investigation is continuing.

Devices seized during investigation

During the inquiry, police seized 02 mobile phones, 01 tablet, 01 laptop and 01 empty mobile box from the accused. A digital examination of the devices reportedly found objectionable graphs and videos linked to child sexual abuse, along with search and download history involving obscene material.

Police said the alleged victim and the accused were neighbours. The accused was also a minor when the alleged incident occurred. According to the investigation, the accused often spent extended periods alone at home and used the internet without parental supervision.

Police allege that the accused searched for obscene material involving children through a Wi-Fi connection and stored such content on a laptop. Investigators further allege that the material influenced the accused to abuse the neighbouring child, record the incident and upload the video online.

The identity of the child has not been disclosed. After the case came to light, police arranged special counselling for the alleged victim and the child’s family.

Investigation and cyber tipline

The investigation has been assigned to Jasveer Singh Chauhan, the officer in charge of Kathgodam police station. The police action followed directions from Nainital Senior Superintendent of Police Dr Manjunath T.C.

A cyber tipline is an online reporting system used to pass information about suspected child sexual abuse material and online child exploitation to the relevant agencies. Such reports can help law-enforcement authorities identify suspected activity and begin legal action.

The police have appealed to parents to closely monitor children’s use of mobile phones, the internet and social media. They have also urged families to teach children about safe and unsafe behaviour online and in everyday life.

Police advised parents to maintain a friendly and trusting relationship with children so they can report concerns without fear. Any suspected abuse or other emergency should be reported immediately. Cybercrime complaints can be filed at www.cybercrime.gov.in, while emergencies can be reported by calling 112.

Conclusion

Nainital Police have registered FIR number 373/2026 in Haldwani after cyber tipline complaints led to an investigation involving alleged child sexual abuse, digital evidence and online distribution. The matter remains under investigation, with counselling provided to the child and family.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Where was the case registered?

The FIR was registered at Haldwani Kotwali in Nainital district.

Q. What laws have been cited in the FIR?

Police cited Sections 14/15 of the POCSO Act and Section 67(B) of the Information Technology Act.

Q. How many complaints were received through the cyber tipline?

Police took cognizance of 11 serious complaints received through the cyber tipline.

Q. What items were seized?

Police seized 02 mobile phones, 01 tablet, 01 laptop and 01 empty mobile box.

Q. Who is investigating the case?

The investigation was assigned to Jasveer Singh Chauhan, the officer in charge of Kathgodam police station.

Q. What support was provided to the child and family?

Police arranged special counselling for the alleged victim and the child’s family.

Q. Where can cybercrime complaints be filed?

Complaints can be filed at www.cybercrime.gov.in. Emergencies can be reported by calling 112.