Seer Arrested for Brutal Rape of Minor Girl; POCSO Case Filed

“Trust Betrayed: Priest Accused of Abducting, Assaulting Teen in Shocking Crime”

Belagavi Shock: Priest Accused of Abducting and Assaulting Teen

Belagavi: In a disturbing case that has sent shockwaves across the region, Lokeshwar Swami, a pontiff from Mekali village in Raibagh taluk, has been arrested for the alleged rape of a minor girl. The accused, who exploited the trust of the victim’s family, faces severe charges under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act after a harrowing ordeal that spanned multiple districts.

Abduction and Assault Under Guise of Help

The horrific incident unfolded on May 13, when the minor girl was returning home and the seer, known to her family, offered her a lift in his car. Trusting his religious stature, the girl accepted. However, instead of dropping her safely, the accused allegedly abducted her, driving through Bagalkot before taking her to Raichur.

According to the complaint filed by the victim’s parents, the seer confined the girl in a lodge in Raichur town, where he sexually assaulted her. After three days of captivity, he abandoned her at Mahalingapura Bus Stand in Bagalkot on May 16, threatening to kill her if she spoke about the crime.

Brave Survivor Speaks; Police Swiftly Act

Despite the threats, the traumatized girl courageously confided in her family, prompting them to immediately approach the Bagalkot Women Police. The case was later transferred to the Moodalagi Police Station, where authorities registered a POCSO case and launched a swift investigation.

“We have arrested the accused based on the victim’s statement and corroborative evidence,” a senior police officer confirmed. “The law will take its strictest course to ensure justice.”

Outrage and Demand for Justice

The heinous act has triggered widespread condemnation, with activists and local residents demanding stringent punishment for the accused. “It is appalling that someone in a position of spiritual authority could commit such a monstrous crime,” said a child rights advocate. “This case must serve as a stern reminder that no one is above the law.”

Police are further investigating whether the accused has a history of similar offenses. Meanwhile, the survivor is receiving necessary legal and psychological support.

Strict Legal Action Promised

Authorities have assured that the case will be handled with utmost seriousness, given the gravity of the charges. “The POCSO Act ensures stringent punishment for such crimes, and we will ensure that justice prevails,” an official stated.

As the legal process unfolds, the case has reignited discussions on the safety of minors and the need for vigilance, even against those who masquerade as guardians of faith.

Quotes:

1. Police Official:
   “We have strong evidence against the accused, and the law will ensure he faces the harshest punishment. No one, regardless of their status, can escape justice for such a horrific crime.”

2. Child Rights Activist:
   “This case is a chilling reminder that predators often hide behind respectability. The survivor’s bravery must be met with swift and unrelenting legal action.”

3. Victim’s Family Member (if anonymized):
   “We trusted him as a holy man, but he turned out to be a monster. We will fight until our daughter gets justice.”

4. Local Resident:
   “How can someone who preached morality commit such evil? The law must make an example of him.”