‘That’s Not My Father’: Child’s Quick Thinking Foils Kidnap Attempt

A disturbing incident in Greater Noida West has raised serious questions about public safety. At the same time, the courage of a 10-year-old girl has demonstrated how awareness can help prevent crime.

Vartika, daughter of media professional Manohar Singh, successfully foiled an attempted kidnapping through her alertness and quick thinking.

Vartika, a Class 5 student at NPS School, was returning home after school when a masked man approached her. He claimed that her father had sent him to pick her up.

When she refused to accompany him, the accused attempted to mislead her by making a fake phone call and asking someone to impersonate her father.

Vartika remembered her father’s phone number and immediately realised that the voice on the call was not his.

The accused tried again to convince her, but she had already sensed danger. Without panicking, she ran away from the spot and safely reached her home.

Vartika’s response reflected the values and precautions taught by her parents over time. She refused to trust an unknown person, used her knowledge wisely to identify deception, and made a swift decision to prioritise her safety.

This incident serves as an important reminder for parents, particularly in urban areas like Noida, where such risks exist.

Ensuring children are prepared and aware can significantly reduce their vulnerability to such threats.

Parents should adopt several precautionary steps to protect their children. Setting a secret code word can help verify trusted individuals.

Children should memorise key contact numbers and addresses. They must also understand the risks of fake calls and learn to move towards crowded places in unsafe situations.

Teaching children to firmly say ‘no’ to strangers and monitoring their daily commute are equally important.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident and are reviewing CCTV footage from the area. Initial suspicions suggest that a group may be involved in such activities.

Vartika’s courage and awareness helped her avoid a dangerous situation and safeguarded her family from distress. Her example highlights the critical importance of awareness and preparedness, encouraging every child to stay alert and informed in similar situations.

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