POCSO Court in Prayagraj Reserves Decision on FIR Petition Against Swami
A Pocso court in Prayagraj has reserved its decision on a petition filed by Ashutosh Ji Mahraj, seeking a direction to the police authorities to register an FIR against Swami Avimukteshwaranand for the alleged exploitation of minor boys in his camp. The court's decision will be pronounced at a later date, following the recording of statements from the two minor boys involved in the case.
Background of the Petition and Allegations
Ashutosh Mahraj alleged that he had earlier approached the police authorities in Prayagraj to lodge an FIR regarding the exploitation, but no action was taken. Consequently, he filed a petition before the Pocso court, requesting a directive for the police to register an FIR against Swami Avimukteshwaranand. This move aims to ensure a thorough investigation into the allegations and the submission of a detailed report accordingly.
According to Ashutosh Mahraj, while he was at his camp during the Magh Mela in Prayagraj, two minor boys contacted him, alleging that they were being sexually exploited in the camp of Swami Avimukteshwaranand. These serious accusations prompted the legal action, highlighting concerns over child safety and exploitation in religious gatherings.
Court Proceedings and Statements
The Pocso court judge, Vinod Kumar Chaurasia, initially issued a notice to Swami Avimukteshwaranand to file his reply to the allegations. A reply was subsequently filed on behalf of Avimukteshwaranand and taken on record by the court. On Friday, as per the court's direction, the two minor boys were produced before the court, and their statements were officially recorded.
This step is crucial in the judicial process, as it allows the court to directly hear from the alleged victims, ensuring their voices are considered in the decision-making. The reservation of the decision indicates that the court is now deliberating on the matter, weighing the evidence and arguments presented before issuing a final order.
Implications and Next Steps
The case underscores the importance of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act in addressing crimes against minors. If the court directs the registration of an FIR, it could lead to a formal police investigation into the allegations against Swami Avimukteshwaranand, potentially resulting in legal proceedings and accountability.
This development in Prayagraj highlights ongoing efforts to combat child exploitation and ensure that such allegations are taken seriously by both law enforcement and the judiciary. The outcome of this case may set a precedent for similar incidents, emphasizing the need for prompt action in protecting vulnerable children from abuse.
