A 28-year-old cleric was arrested from a religious place in Ludhiana after being accused of sexually assaulting a 16-year-old boy. The police registered a case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and produced the accused in court, where he was remanded for questioning.
Investigating officer Satnam Singh said the survivor hails from another state and was visiting his elder brother who works in Ludhiana. On Tuesday, the boy complained of body ache, and his brother took him to the cleric for help. The cleric allegedly asked the elder brother to leave and took the boy into a room where he sexually assaulted him.
The teenager confided in his brother and told him that the cleric beat him brutally when he resisted. The brothers went to the police, after which an FIR was registered. Investigating officer Satnam Singh said police went to the religious place and arrested the cleric.
Legal Action Taken
Authorities have invoked the POCSO Act to ensure strict legal proceedings. The accused was produced before a court and remanded for further questioning to uncover additional details of the incident.
Background of the Case
The victim, a 16-year-old from another state, was visiting his elder brother in Ludhiana. The alleged assault occurred when the brother sought medical assistance from the cleric for the teenager's body pain. The cleric exploited the situation, leading to the crime.
Police Investigation
Officer Satnam Singh confirmed that the police acted swiftly, registering an FIR based on the brothers' complaint. The cleric was taken into custody from the religious premises. Investigation is ongoing to gather evidence and witness statements.
This incident highlights the need for vigilance in religious places and the importance of reporting crimes against children. The POCSO Act provides a legal framework to prosecute offenders and protect minors.
