Nagpur: A 17-year-old girl was allegedly raped by a youth at a café in Nandanvan area, raising concerns over security at establishments offering privacy in curtained cubicles and private seating spaces.Police on Sunday registered a case against Sameer Sheikh (20) who allegedly called the minor to the café and forcibly had physical relations with her in July. As per the police complaint, he allegedly threatened the minor with dire consequences if she disclosed the incident.The girl initially remained silent but later informed her father about the alleged repeated harassment. On Sunday, the accused allegedly went to her house and tried to force her to undergo a pregnancy test.The girl then approached the police and a case was registered under provisions dealing with sexual assault, criminal intimidation and offences under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.The incident has once again brought attention to the growing trend of “privacy cafés” in parts of Nagpur, particularly along and around Nandanvan Cement Road and other pockets of east and south-east Nagpur.Several cafés advertise curtained cabins, cubicles and private zones with food combos on social media platforms. Police have in the past faced law-and-order problems, including group clashes and disturbances, at some cafés. Raids and checks were conducted at a few such establishments several months ago following complaints and incidents.Officials said they need to examine whether such spaces have adequate safeguards, particularly when minors are involved.
