Chitradurga Teacher Faces Pocso Charges for Alleged Sexual Assault on Minor Student
In a disturbing case from Karnataka's Chitradurga district, a government higher primary school mathematics teacher has been formally charged under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Pocso) Act for the alleged sexual assault of a minor girl who was previously his student. The case was registered at the Talaku police station in Challakere taluk, sending shockwaves through the local community.
Teacher Attempts Suicide Following Allegations
As the investigation gained momentum, the accused teacher, identified as HO Rajanna, reportedly attempted to die by suicide by consuming poison. He was immediately rushed to Chigateri Hospital in Davanagere for emergency medical treatment. This drastic action followed the filing of an official complaint by district child protection officer Rekha N on April 9, which named both teacher Rajanna and Dr Shankarlakshmi in connection with the sexual assault case.
Details of the Alleged Assault and Subsequent Pregnancy
The 16-year-old survivor, whose identity is protected under the law, was allegedly sexually assaulted by teacher Rajanna on August 26, 2025. The incident occurred as the girl and her mother were returning to their village after attending the Gaurasamudra Maramma Devi festival. According to police reports, the assault took place at a cornfield in Talaku village, which is the native village of the accused teacher.
Police investigations reveal that the teacher reportedly assaulted the minor multiple times afterwards, even after she had transitioned to high school in Challakere. This repeated abuse resulted in the girl becoming pregnant, a fact that was eventually discovered by teachers at her new school who noticed concerning changes in her health and behavior.
Forced Abortion and Medical Complicity Allegations
Upon learning about the pregnancy, the accused teacher allegedly pressured the minor girl to undergo an abortion. Police records indicate that arrangements were made at Lakshmi Srinivasa Nursing Home in Challakere with the assistance of Dr Shankarlakshmi. The procedure was reportedly conducted in the early hours of March 1, 2026, at approximately 3 AM.
Following these revelations, a formal case was filed against both the teacher and the doctor at the Talaku police station on Thursday night. Law enforcement authorities have initiated a comprehensive investigation into all aspects of the case, including the initial assaults, the subsequent pregnancy, and the alleged forced termination.
Child Protection Authorities Intervene
In response to the serious nature of the allegations, child protection authorities have become actively involved in the case. Chandana, the coordinator of the Child Helpline Project, visited the survivor's village on April 8 to gather detailed information from the girl's family members and assess the situation firsthand. This intervention underscores the systemic response to such serious violations of child protection laws.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about child safety in educational institutions and the importance of robust mechanisms to prevent and address sexual violence against minors. As the investigation continues, authorities are examining all evidence and witness statements to ensure justice is served in this deeply troubling case from Chitradurga district.
