A Zero FIR has been lodged at the Lakshmeshwar Police Station in Davangere, Karnataka, against Vachananand Swamiji, the head of the Veerashaiva Panchamasali Lingayath Matha in Harihara. This development follows serious allegations of sexual harassment involving a minor student, according to police officials on May 15. The reported incident is said to have occurred on March 20, 2024.

The complaint was filed by a 40-year-old labourer whose 16-year-old son attended the institution from 2021 to 2024. The father claims that during his son’s time at the Matha, the minor and other students experienced repeated sexual and physical abuse at the hands of the accused.

It is alleged that Vachananand Swamiji coerced the victim and others to disrobe in the institution’s bathroom. Further claims suggest that the young students were made to perform inappropriate acts while the accused was in a state of undress. Such allegations paint a disturbing picture of the environment within the institution, as the minors reportedly faced severe repercussions when they attempted to resist the advances.

Further Allegations of Intimidation

In addition to the aforementioned abuse, the complaint outlines a pattern of intimidation employed by the accused. The victims allegedly received threats of death intended to discourage them from revealing the abuse to outside parties. This tactic reportedly contributed to a culture of fear among the students, making it difficult for them to seek help or confide in their parents.

The minors, according to the complaint, were subjected to physical assaults and deprivation of food if they resisted or spoke out against the harassment. Such actions potentially highlight a grim reality faced by students, who were reportedly trapped in a cycle of fear and control within the institution.

This alarming situation has drawn attention not only from the local community but also from child protection advocates and law enforcement agencies. The police have taken the complaint seriously, recognising the need for a thorough investigation into these serious allegations.

Legal Action Initiated

Authorities have charged Vachananand Swamiji under several provisions of the law, including Sections 8 and 12 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012. These sections pertain specifically to acts of sexual assault against minors. Additionally, the accused faces charges under Sections 323 for voluntarily causing hurt and 506 for criminal intimidation under the Indian Penal Code.

Investigations are currently ongoing, and law enforcement is expected to delve deeper into the allegations to gather more evidence. This case serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilant enforcement of laws designed to protect minors from exploitation and abuse.

As the situation develops, the community and concerned stakeholders await further updates from law enforcement and legal authorities. The case has raised critical questions about the safety and welfare of students attending institutions of religious and educational significance.

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