In Andhra Pradesh's Nellore district, a harrowing incident has come to light where a 10-year-old child was brutally tortured after being accused of stealing a mobile phone. The young girl, identified as Chenchamma, who resides with her aunt, Sannari Manikyam, in the Scheduled Tribe Colony of Kuditepalem Kakarla Dibba, became the victim of vigilante violence.

Neighbors, suspecting Chenchamma of stealing a mobile phone from a nearby house, allegedly took matters into their own hands. They reportedly used a hot iron rod to burn the child multiple times and physically beat her. The details of the torture have sparked outrage and condemnation.

Upon receiving information about the incident, the local police intervened and have launched an investigation. A case has been registered against the aunt and four other individuals allegedly involved in the assault. Authorities are currently gathering evidence and recording statements to ascertain the full extent of the crime and bring the perpetrators to justice.

According to local sources, Chenchamma's mother, Venkataramamma, had remarried and left the child in the care of her aunt. This detail has added another layer of complexity to the already tragic situation, raising questions about the child's safety and well-being.

A video of Chenchamma, bearing visible burns on her face and expressing her ordeal through tears, has been widely circulated on social media. In the video, she recounts her repeated denials of stealing any phone, stating that she was forcefully apprehended and tortured by four people. The disturbing footage has amplified public outcry and demands for swift and severe action against those responsible.

The incident has triggered widespread condemnation from child rights activists and concerned citizens, who are calling for stringent measures to protect vulnerable children from such acts of violence. Many are emphasizing the need for community awareness programs to educate people about the legal and ethical consequences of taking the law into their own hands.

This shocking incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by children, particularly those from marginalized communities, and the urgent need for robust child protection mechanisms. It also highlights the importance of addressing societal attitudes that condone violence and vigilantism. The authorities are under pressure to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation and ensure that justice is served, sending a clear message that such acts of brutality will not be tolerated.