Why Was a Seer Arrested for Rapin a Minor in Belagavi?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The seer is accused of raping a minor.
- Police initiated a POCSO case against him.
- Victim's parents were devotees of the mutt.
- Community calls for justice and accountability.
- Investigations are ongoing.
Belagavi, May 24 (NationPress) A well-known Hindu seer has been taken into custody following accusations of raping a 17-year-old girl in Karnataka's Belagavi district, as reported by the police on Saturday.
The authorities have initiated a case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act against the accused.
The complaint was first filed at the Bagalkot Women's Police Station and later transferred to the Mudalagi Police Station.
The individual in question is the chief pontiff of a notable mutt situated in a village within the Rayabagh taluk of Belagavi district.
Reports indicate that the seer allegedly assaulted the girl multiple times while threatening her life should she disclose the incidents.
On May 13, the accused transported the girl to Raichur and remained there for two days.
Subsequently, they traveled to Bagalkot on May 15, where they stayed for another two days.
The seer reportedly deceived the girl into believing he would return her home, only to exploit the situation and commit the crime.
On May 17, the accused left the victim at the Mahalingapura bus stop in Bagalkot district. Eventually, she confided in her parents about the harrowing experience, prompting them to file a complaint at the Bagalkot Women's Police Station.
Initial investigations have revealed that the girl’s parents, who were devoted followers of the mutt and held the accused seer in high regard, often left their daughter at the mutt for extended periods. The seer allegedly exploited this trust.
The police have also reported claims against the mutt and the seer regarding other illicit activities.
Furthermore, it has come to light that the accused seer faced violence from villagers in 2021.
Community members have urged the police to take stringent legal measures against the seer.
Authorities have documented the testimonies of both the villagers and the victim.
The accused has now been presented to the court and placed in judicial custody.