POCSO Case Launched Against Yadgir 'Godman' After Disturbing Video Emerges
Synopsis
A self-styled 'godman' in Yadgir faces serious allegations after a video surfaced showing him misbehaving with a minor. The Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights has stepped in, initiating a suo motu case and demanding an investigation.
Key Takeaways
Serious allegations against a self-proclaimed 'godman'.
Karnataka Commission for Child Rights is actively involved.
Accused has fled to evade arrest.
Public outrage has prompted immediate action.
Family claims the incident was misinterpreted.
Yadgir (Karnataka), Feb 26 (NationPress) A self-identified 'godman' from Yadgir is facing serious allegations of inappropriate conduct with a minor girl, following the circulation of a disturbing video on social media. Consequently, the Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (KSCPCR) has initiated a suo motu case and has lodged a formal complaint with the Yadgir Superintendent of Police (SP) on Thursday.
The individual in question, Mallikarjun Mutya, aged between 25 and 26, has reportedly fled his home and is currently evading arrest after a First Information Report (FIR) was filed against him.
The shocking footage, which has incited significant public outrage, allegedly depicts Mallikarjun Mutya behaving inappropriately with a child seated on his lap. The video also shows him aggressively pulling the child across a table while in the presence of other individuals, and proceeding to hug and kiss her forcefully.
A case has been registered at the Gogi Police Station under the POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) Act, based on a complaint from the Child Development Project Officer (CDPO) of Shahapur taluk.
In a correspondence to the SP, Commission Chairman Shashidhar Kosambe emphasized: "A video showing the accused's misconduct with a minor girl is circulating online, inciting public demand for swift action. The Commission has taken cognizance of this video and has registered a suo motu case. Therefore, you are instructed to investigate thoroughly and provide a comprehensive report to the Commission."
In response to these developments, the accused's family asserts his innocence, claiming that the child is a distant relative and that his actions were merely expressions of familial affection.
The family contends that the girl's father initially filmed the video to capture a moment of familial love. They argue that following its upload as a mobile status, the context was misinterpreted, leading to the current allegations.
The police are continuing their investigation into the matter.
It is worth noting that in January, a collaborative operation by a city-based NGO and officials from the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) led to the arrest of a 45-year-old self-styled godman in Bengaluru for allegedly selling monitor lizard genitals, claiming to assist clients with their issues through supposed magical abilities.
Point of View
It is crucial to ensure a fair process that considers all perspectives while prioritizing the well-being of the child involved.
NationPress
6 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the registration of the POCSO case?
The case was registered after a video surfaced showing a self-proclaimed godman allegedly misbehaving with a minor girl, prompting the Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights to act.
Who is the accused in this case?
The accused is Mallikarjun Mutya, a 25-26-year-old self-identified 'godman' from Yadgir.
What actions have been taken by the authorities?
The KSCPCR has registered a suo motu case and filed a formal complaint with the Superintendent of Police in Yadgir.
What does the video depict?
The video allegedly shows the accused misbehaving with a child, including inappropriate physical behavior.
How has the family of the accused responded?
The family claims the accused is innocent and that the actions were misinterpreted as affectionate behavior towards a distant relative.
