The Harihar seer, a prominent religious figure in Karnataka, has been booked under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act for allegedly sexually assaulting a minor boy. The case was registered at the Harihar police station following a complaint filed by the victim's family.
Details of the Incident
According to the complaint, the seer had called the boy to his ashram under the pretext of offering blessings. It is alleged that the seer then sexually assaulted the minor. The incident came to light when the boy narrated the ordeal to his parents, who subsequently approached the police.
Legal Action Taken
The police have registered a case under Section 4 of the POCSO Act, which deals with penetrative sexual assault, and relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code. The seer has been absconding since the registration of the case, and a search is underway to apprehend him.
This is not the first time the seer has been embroiled in controversy. In the past, he has faced allegations of land grabbing and other illegal activities. However, this is the first instance of a sexual assault charge being filed against him.
Reactions from the Community
The news has sent shockwaves through the local community. Parents in the area have expressed concern over the safety of their children. Many have demanded strict action against the seer and have called for a thorough investigation into the matter.
Human rights activists have also condemned the incident, emphasizing the need for stringent enforcement of laws protecting children. They have urged the authorities to ensure that the seer is brought to justice swiftly.
Police Investigation
Senior police officials have assured that the investigation will be conducted impartially. A special team has been formed to trace the seer. The police are also examining the seer's phone records and other evidence to gather more information about his activities.
The victim has been sent for medical examination, and his statement has been recorded under Section 164 of the Criminal Procedure Code before a magistrate. The police are also looking into whether there are other victims who might have been assaulted by the seer.
The case has once again highlighted the issue of child sexual abuse in religious institutions. Activists have called for stricter monitoring of such places to prevent such incidents in the future.
