Sydney Childcare Worker Jayendra Shahi Granted Bail After Allegedly Slapping Sleeping Children

Sydney childcare worker Jayendra Jung Shahi, accused of slapping two sleeping children across the face as they slept, has been granted bail.

Nepalese national Jayendra Jung Shahi, 25, appeared in Bankstown Local Court on Sunday after spending a night in custody. While prosecutors opposed his bail citing a risk to children, Shahi’s lawyers claimed a night behind bars was a “wake-up call” for Shahi.

Shahi’s wife submitted an affidavit in court claiming her husband was under mental health stress following family tragedies, reported 7News.

Serious Common Assault, Says Judge

Judge Amanda Coultas-Roberts remarked that Shahi’s offence was “serious examples of common assault”. The judge granted Shahi bail but said he must surrender his passport and is banned from entering any childcare centre.

Shahi arrived in Australia from Nepal around seven years ago. Last year, he completed an early childhood education diploma. Shahi is reportedly working towards his permanent residency visa, which would allow him to reside in Australia permanently and apply for Australian citizenship.

According to NSW Police, Shahi allegedly struck two boys — aged three and four — across the face with an open hand as they slept during nap time at the Panania Montessori Academy on Thursday April 23, 2026.

Sydney Childcare Worker Caught On CCTV Slapping Children

The alleged assaults were captured on the centre’s CCTV system. A parent is understood to have viewed the footage and reported the incident to police the following day.

Officers from Bankstown Police Area Command arrested Shahi at a Belmore address early on Saturday morning. He was taken to Bankstown Police Station and charged with two counts of common assault.

The Panania Montessori Academy, which cares for children up to six years old, said they had terminated Shahi’s employment. Shahi is due to appear in court next month. He has not yet entered a plea.