A 12-year-old girl was allegedly sold by her own mother and stepfather for Rs 12 lakh in Rajgarh district of Madhya Pradesh, with police confirming the child was subsequently raped by at least three men over several months before the case came to light through counselling.

A Family That Failed Her

The sequence of events began in January 2025 when the victim's biological father died due to excessive alcohol consumption, leaving the family without support. Within months, her mother remarried a man identified as Pawan alias Paramal Gurjar, a resident of Laharca Chak in Guna district.

After the second marriage, Pawan brought the girl and her mother to Rajgarh. According to investigators, it was here that the criminal conspiracy took shape — the child was treated not as a family member but as a commodity.

Forced into Marriage at 12

On 3 February 2025, the minor was forcibly married off to 26-year-old Bhola alias Bholaram Gurjar. Police say the transaction involved Rs 8 lakh in cash and jewellery worth Rs 4 lakh — an outright case of child trafficking dressed up as matrimony.

The groom allegedly raped the girl on their wedding night. In the weeks that followed, her stepfather Pawan also sexually assaulted her multiple times. Threatened into silence, the child endured the abuse without telling anyone.

Abandoned, Exploited, Assaulted Again

Her ordeal did not end there. Pawan eventually abandoned the girl's mother and went absconding. The mother then contracted a third marriage in Rajasthan and left her daughter behind at the home of a woman named Shaitanbai in Rajgarh, where the child was made to do household work.

It was during this period that another accused, Devraj Gurjar, found an opportunity to sexually assault her.

How the Case Surfaced

The matter came to the notice of Kotwali police station in-charge Inspector Manju Makhenia. Acting on the information, authorities placed the girl in a safe environment and arranged counselling. Once she felt assured of protection, the child narrated her ordeal in detail — describing months of physical, mental, and sexual abuse carried out under constant threats and intimidation.

"She had been living under fear for a long time. The counselling gave her the confidence to speak," a police official said.

Five Arrested, Mastermind Still at Large

An FIR bearing crime number 350/2026 has been registered at Kotwali police station under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, the Juvenile Justice (JJ) Act, and the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act.

Five of the six accused have been arrested: Bhola alias Bholaram Gurjar, Devraj Gurjar, Sagar Gurjar, Shaitanbai, and the victim's mother. The prime accused, Pawan alias Paramal Gurjar, remains at large. Police have announced a reward of Rs 10,000 for information leading to his arrest and are conducting raids at multiple locations.

Child Marriage Still Happening in Shadows

Despite laws being in place for nearly five decades, child marriages continue to occur across India — not in public ceremony but in secrecy, often in agricultural fields, away from any gathering or decoration. The Prevention of Child Marriage Act was enacted in 2006 with strengthened provisions, following the 1978 amendment that raised the legal marriage age for girls to 18. Yet cases like this one reveal how legislation alone cannot protect a child when her own family becomes the instrument of exploitation.

The Rajgarh case is a stark reminder that trafficking does not always happen at borders or in distant cities. Sometimes it happens within the home.

Datia Minor Rape Case: Accused Booked for Repeated Assault on 17-Year-Old

Datia (Madhya Pradesh): Police in Datia district have registered a case against a man accused of raping a 17-year-old girl twice, using morphed photographs and videos to blackmail her and issuing death threats to her family.

The incidents came to light late on Thursday night when the minor, accompanied by her parents, reached Basai police station and lodged a complaint. Police have booked the accused, identified as Veeru Ahirwar, under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. Teams have been formed to trace and arrest him.

First Assault in Fields

According to the complaint, the first incident occurred nearly two months ago. The girl was on her way to the fields in the afternoon when the accused allegedly approached her from behind on a secluded path. He overpowered her, dragged her into nearby bushes, and assaulted her. 

When she resisted, he allegedly slapped her and threatened to kill both her and her father. The accused also captured photographs and videos of the act on his mobile phone. Fearing social stigma and the threats, the teenager chose to remain silent at the time.

Second Incident on May 18

The nightmare continued on May 18. The girl alleged that Veeru Ahirwar stopped her again on a village path and, using the previously recorded photos and videos as leverage, threatened to make them viral if she did not comply. He then allegedly raped her for the second time.

Even after the second assault, the girl initially hesitated to speak out due to continuous threats from the accused. Sources familiar with the case said the family faced immense pressure and fear of reputational damage in the close-knit rural community.

Family Breaks Silence

The situation escalated when the accused reportedly continued issuing threats to the family, including dire warnings against the girl’s father. This persistent intimidation finally compelled the minor to confide in her parents. On Thursday evening, the family decided to approach the police.

“Initial reports indicate that the family had been living in fear for weeks,” a police officer said, requesting anonymity. The complaint was formally registered late Thursday night at Basai police station.

Police Action Underway

Datia police have taken the matter seriously given the minor’s age and the repeated nature of the crime. A senior officer confirmed that multiple teams are actively searching for Veeru Ahirwar. “We have registered the case and are investigating all angles. The accused will be arrested soon,” the officer added.

Forensic and medical examination of the victim has been initiated as per protocol in POCSO cases. Police are also examining the mobile phone records and any possible digital evidence related to the alleged blackmail material.

Impact on Local Community

The case has sent ripples of concern through the villages under Basai police station limits. Residents expressed shock over the repeated assaults and the use of digital blackmail, a growing concern in rural areas with increasing mobile phone penetration.

Women’s rights activists in the region have called for swift action and better safety measures for girls traveling on isolated paths, especially in agricultural areas. Such incidents often highlight the vulnerabilities faced by young girls in parts of Madhya Pradesh despite various government schemes for women’s safety.

Background and Similar Cases

Datia, located in the northern part of Madhya Pradesh, has witnessed occasional reports of crimes against women, though officials maintain that the overall law and order situation remains under control. The district administration has in the past run awareness campaigns regarding POCSO and cyber blackmail.

This case once again brings into focus the challenges of timely reporting in sexual assault cases involving minors, where fear of social ostracization often delays justice.

Police have appealed to the public to provide any information regarding the whereabouts of the accused. They have assured complete protection to the victim and her family.

As the investigation progresses, authorities are expected to update on further developments in the coming days. The minor is currently being provided necessary counselling and support through district authorities.

A special POCSO court in Chhattisgarh’s Raigarh district has sentenced a 24-year-old man to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment for abducting and repeatedly sexually assaulting a minor girl. The judgment was delivered by Special Judge Devendra Sahu after the court found the accused guilty under provisions related to rape and offences against children. The court also imposed a fine of Rs 6,000 on the convict. Officials said additional imprisonment would apply if the fine is not paid. The case was registered under the Kotra Road police station area and had drawn attention due to the manner in which the accused allegedly lured the victim.

Minor Went Missing From Home

According to prosecution records, the incident began on May 28, 2025, when the 16-year-old victim was staying at home with her grandmother while her parents had gone to attend the funeral of a relative. Police said the girl left home around 11:30 am after informing her grandmother that she was going to a nearby shop. However, she did not return, following which family members began searching for her. After repeated attempts failed, the family approached police authorities and a kidnapping case was registered. Investigators later launched a detailed search operation to trace the missing teenager.

Friendship Started Through Mobile

During investigation, police found that the accused, identified as Karan Dom, a resident of Patratoli in Jashpur district, had allegedly come into contact with the victim through a mobile phone conversation in 2024. Officials stated that the accused used an unknown number to communicate with the girl and gradually developed contact with her over time. According to the prosecution, the accused allegedly trapped the minor in a relationship by promising marriage and later convinced her to meet him outside her hometown.

Taken to Odisha and Kunkuri

Police investigation revealed that the accused first called the victim to Gerwani and then allegedly took her by bus to Kunkuri before travelling to Puri in Odisha. Prosecution officials told the court that the accused kept the girl confined in a house in Puri and repeatedly sexually assaulted her over a period of nearly five days. After staying in Odisha, the accused reportedly brought the victim back to Kunkuri in Chhattisgarh. The court observed that the victim was a minor and incapable of legally consenting to such acts.

Family Informed by Relative

According to the case details, on July 3, 2025, the accused and the victim reportedly reached the residence of the accused’s maternal uncle in Telain village. Police said the accused’s uncle later contacted the victim’s family and informed them about her whereabouts. Following the information, police teams immediately reached the location the next day and rescued the victim. Authorities simultaneously arrested the accused and initiated legal proceedings under the POCSO Act and other relevant sections of law.

Court Calls It Serious Crime

During the hearing, the special POCSO court observed that the accused knowingly abducted a minor girl and exploited her despite being aware of her age. The court noted that the accused not only misled the victim by promising marriage but also violated her dignity and personal safety through repeated sexual assault. Special Judge Devendra Sahu termed the offence serious in nature and held the accused guilty based on witness statements, evidence collected during investigation, and medical findings presented before the court.

Rigorous Punishment Awarded

The court sentenced the accused to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment and also imposed a monetary penalty. Officials said the prosecution strongly argued the case and sought strict punishment considering the gravity of the offence and the age of the victim. The trial was conducted by Special Public Prosecutor Govind Narayan Dubey on behalf of the state government. Legal experts said the judgment reflects the strict approach adopted by courts in cases involving crimes against minors under the POCSO Act.

Police and Legal Action Praised

Authorities stated that coordinated efforts between investigators and prosecutors helped secure conviction in the case. Police officials said timely tracing of the victim and evidence collection played an important role during trial proceedings. The case has once again highlighted concerns related to online contact, grooming through mobile communication, and exploitation of minors through false promises. Officials appealed to parents and guardians to remain alert regarding unknown contacts and suspicious communication involving children and teenagers.

---------------

Chhattisgarh Shocker: Boyfriend Raped Minor on Marriage Promise, Leaked Private Videos When She Protested

 In a disturbing case that has come to light from Surguja district, a 24-year-old man allegedly raped a minor student after promising to marry her, then married another woman. When the survivor objected, the accused leaked her private photos and videos on social media and began blackmailing her to force physical relations again.

The entire incident falls under the Gandhi Nagar police station limits in Ambikapur city. Police have arrested the accused and registered charges under the POCSO Act and IT Act. The survivor, a minor, filed a complaint after weeks of harassment.

Friendship Started at a Wedding Function

According to the complaint filed by the survivor, she first met the accused – identified as Anoj Das (24), a resident of Salka Patratoli village – during a wedding ceremony. What began as an exchange of mobile numbers slowly turned into casual conversations and eventually took the shape of a romantic relationship.

Over time, Anoj started calling her to his rented accommodation in the Pataparia area of Ambikapur. Sources familiar with the matter said the accused allegedly raped her multiple times on the promise of marriage. During this period, he secretly recorded intimate videos and clicked photographs of the minor without her knowledge or consent.

The Turning Point: A Second Marriage

The situation took a violent turn when Anoj married another woman without informing the survivor. Local authorities confirmed that when the minor student confronted him and opposed the marriage, the accused's behaviour changed drastically.

Initially, he tried to intimidate her. When she did not back down, Anoj allegedly uploaded her private photos and videos on social media platforms and made them viral. Officials said the accused deliberately used this as a tool to silence her.

Blackmail and Pressure to Resume Relationship

Things escalated quickly after that. The survivor told police that Anoj began blackmailing her using the viral videos and started pressuring her to resume physical relations with him. The constant fear of more private content being circulated online, combined with repeated threats, left the minor severely distressed.

Unable to handle the pressure anymore, the student approached Latoti police outpost and lodged a formal complaint. According to officials, the case was immediately transferred to Gandhi Nagar police station due to the seriousness of the charges.

Case Under POCSO and IT Act

Police have registered a case under multiple legal provisions. These include BNS sections 65(1)A and 64(2), IT Act section 67(B), and section 6 of the POCSO Act. The POCSO sections were invoked because the survivor is a minor.

A police officer familiar with the investigation said, "Section 67(B) of the IT Act specifically deals with publishing or transmitting obscene material depicting children. The accused has clearly violated this."

Accused Arrested, Sent to Jail

Acting on the complaint, police arrested Anoj Das on Sunday from his native village Salka Patratoli, which comes under Darima police station limits. Gandhi Nagam police station in-charge Praveen Kumar Dwivedi confirmed that the accused has confessed to his crime during preliminary interrogation.

Sources indicated that Anoj may have been involved in similar cases earlier as well, though officials are currently verifying those details. The accused was produced before a local court and has been sent to judicial custody. Further investigation is underway.

Pune Child Rape and Murder Sparks Protests, Accused Arrested

A Pune child rape and murder case in Bhor taluka triggers outrage as police arrest a 65-year-old suspect and assure swift legal action

Gruesome Crime Reported
A shocking case of rape and murder of a four-year-old girl in Pune district has triggered widespread outrage, with police arresting a 65-year-old man accused of the crime. The incident occurred on Friday afternoon in Nasrapur village under Bhor taluka, where the child had been visiting her grandmother during summer holidays.

According to initial reports, the accused, identified as Bhimrao Kamble, allegedly lured the child while she was playing outside her grandmother’s house around 2 pm. He reportedly took her to a nearby cattle shed, where the crime was committed.

Body Found in Shed
Police said the accused attempted to conceal the crime by hiding the child’s body under a heap of cow dung inside the shed. When the child did not return home for several hours, her family began searching for her across the village.

After an extensive search, locals checked the cattle shed, where the body was discovered. The condition of the child left residents and family members in deep shock. Authorities were immediately informed, and a police team reached the spot shortly thereafter.

CCTV Leads to Arrest
During the investigation, officers scanned CCTV footage from nearby areas. In one of the clips, the accused was seen taking the child towards the shed. Based on this evidence, police detained Kamble and later placed him under arrest.

“Further interrogation is underway, and all angles are being examined,” a police official said, adding that forensic procedures are being carried out as part of the probe.

Villagers Stage Protest
The Pune child rape and murder case has sparked intense anger among villagers. Hundreds gathered near the crime scene, demanding that the accused be handed over to them. Some residents even refused to allow the removal of the child’s body until strict action was assured.

Villagers set up a sit-in near the cattle shed, and tensions escalated as crowds swelled through the evening. Senior police officials reached the spot to pacify the protesters and appealed for calm.

Highway Blocked
As protests intensified, locals blocked the Mumbai-Bengaluru highway, causing a major traffic disruption. Commuters were stranded for hours as police attempted to clear the route and negotiate with demonstrators.

Sandeep Singh Gill assured the protesters that a chargesheet would be filed within 15 days. He also said that the investigation would be fast-tracked to ensure justice.

Legal Provisions Invoked
Police officials indicated that stringent legal provisions would be applied in the case. Under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including those dealing with rape and murder of minors, the accused could face life imprisonment or the death penalty if convicted.

Additionally, provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act are likely to be invoked, further strengthening the case against the accused.

Similar Incidents Raise Concern
The Pune child rape and murder case comes amid growing concern over crimes against minors. In a separate incident in Raipur, a seven-year-old girl was allegedly raped during a wedding in the Tilda Nevara area on April 29. Police arrested the accused, identified as Rajkumar alias Raja Verma, following a complaint from the victim’s family.

In another case reported from Bhopal, a seven-year-old girl was allegedly lured from a park and sexually assaulted. The accused reportedly used inducements to silence the victim after the crime.

Calls for Stronger Action
These incidents have intensified calls for stricter enforcement of laws and faster judicial processes in cases involving crimes against children. Residents in Pune and elsewhere have demanded stronger preventive measures and increased vigilance at the community level.

As the investigation continues, authorities say maintaining law and order remains a priority while ensuring that due legal process is followed. The case is expected to remain under close scrutiny in the coming days.

Tension gripped the Bhilai-3 police station area on Saturday after a 23-year-old man was caught attempting to sexually assault a five-year-old girl. The timely intervention of alert villagers prevented a tragedy, as they chased down the suspect and rescued the child from a secluded spot.

The accused, identified as Kishore Chauhan, allegedly lured the minor away from her home under the pretext of buying her chocolates. This incident comes as a grim reminder of a similar horrific assault reported in the neighboring Utai area just a fortnight ago, sparking concerns over child safety in the district.

The Rescue Operation

According to local sources, the incident occurred around 5:00 PM on Saturday. The child was playing outside her residence when Chauhan approached her. He reportedly took her toward a deserted patch of land filled with dense bushes.

A group of villagers grew suspicious upon seeing the young girl being led toward the thickets by the youth. They decided to follow the duo discreetly. Upon realizing the suspect’s intentions, the locals intervened immediately, securing the girl before any physical harm could be inflicted.

Mob Justice Meted

Infuriated by the act, the gathered crowd reportedly cornered Chauhan on the spot. Witnesses stated that the accused was subjected to a round of thrashing, with locals using slaps and kicks to vent their anger.

The situation remained volatile for nearly an hour until the Bhilai-3 police arrived at the scene. Officers managed to pacify the mob and took the bruised suspect into custody. He was subsequently shifted to a local facility for a medical examination before formal interrogation.

Vulnerable Family Background

The victim's personal circumstances have added a layer of poignancy to the case. Reports indicate that the girl lost her mother some time ago, and her father remains away from the city most of the year for labor work.

The child is currently being raised by a ‘Mitanin’ (community health volunteer) who has legally adopted her. The guardian was reportedly at work when the accused targeted the child. Social activists have called for better protection for children from such vulnerable backgrounds.

Police Confirm Details

Senior police officials, including ASP City Sukhnandan Rathore and CSP Prashant Kumar, reached the spot to oversee the preliminary investigation. The police have officially clarified that while it was a clear attempt at sexual assault, the timely intervention prevented the rape from being completed.

“We have recorded the statements of the eyewitnesses and the guardian. The accused was caught in the act of luring the child to a secluded area with criminal intent,” a senior official stated.

Strict Legal Action

The Bhilai-3 police have registered a formal FIR against Kishore Chauhan. He has been booked under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

Specific charges include Sections 137(2), 65(2), 296, 115(2), and 351(3), alongside Sections 4 and 12 of the POCSO Act. Authorities are currently scanning Chauhan’s past records to determine if he has been involved in prior criminal activities or similar offenses in the Durg district.

Recent Crime Context

The district remains on edge as this is the second such high-profile case involving a minor in 14 days. Earlier this month, a five-year-old was raped in the Utai area by a neighbor, Dhaneshwar Sahu, who had similarly used chocolates as bait.

Public outrage is mounting as residents demand stricter patrolling in residential pockets. The latest news today suggests that local community leaders are planning a representation to the administration seeking enhanced CCTV surveillance in semi-urban patches of Bhilai to deter such predators.

Mahakumbh Viral Girl Fake Certificate: Parents' Role Exposed

Mother of the Mahakumbh viral girl admits she is illiterate and only put thumb impressions on papers as instructed, raising serious questions over the fake birth certificate used in her Kerala marriage.

The parents of the girl who shot to fame after a video from Prayagraj Mahakumbh went viral allegedly forged her birth certificate to show her as an adult, her mother has now revealed. The confession comes days after the National Scheduled Tribes Commission confirmed she was a minor at the time of her marriage in Kerala.

The girl, a member of the Pardhi community from Maheshwar in Madhya Pradesh, was married to Farman Khan on March 11 in Puar village, Kerala. At that time, documents claimed she was over 18. Investigation, however, proved otherwise.

Mother Breaks Silence

In a conversation with Dainik Bhaskar, the girl’s mother said she is illiterate and signed whatever papers were placed before her with her thumb impression. “I am illiterate. When my daughter and father were in Ujjain, a man came to our house. Whatever paper he asked me to put my thumbprint on, I would put it,” she told the newspaper.

She added that her daughter was born in a government hospital in Maheshwar and that the family was told the documents were needed for a passport so the girl could pursue acting.

Fake Certificate for Passport

According to the mother, the man who visited their home claimed certificates were required for her daughter to become a “star”. She said she never knew the papers would be used for marriage. The father had also submitted an application to the Block Medical Officer on March 18 stating the birth year as 2009.

Hospital records confirm the birth date as December 30, 2009. On the day of the nikah, the girl was only 16 years and two months old.

Certificate Issued Illegally

A fake birth certificate was issued by Maheshwar Municipality on June 5, 2025, based on an affidavit claiming home delivery. Chief Municipal Officer Priyanka Pandey said the certificate was issued on the Tehsildar’s order but has since been cancelled following the commission’s probe.

Block Medical Officer Dr Atul Gaur, however, stated that the birth was registered in the government hospital since 2009. He pointed out that municipal authorities had no power to issue a home-birth certificate in such cases, terming it a clear case of document forgery.

Marriage in Kerala Under Scanner

The marriage registration in Kerala was done using the fake certificate. Advocate Pratham Dubey filed a complaint with the National Scheduled Tribes Commission on March 17, alleging the girl was a minor and raising concerns over possible collusion involving certain political elements.

The commission’s investigation not only confirmed her minor status but also flagged that the couple had been staying in VIP hotels for three months, prompting a probe into human trafficking of tribal children.

FIR Lodged in Maheshwar

Following the commission’s recommendation, Maheshwar police have registered an FIR under relevant sections. Action against Farman Khan under the POCSO Act and the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act is now certain. The marriage registration is being cancelled.

Police sources indicated that intermediaries and municipal employees involved in preparing the fake documents are also under investigation.

Trafficking Angle Probed

The case has triggered debate in Madhya Pradesh and beyond. While one section views it as a possible case of religious conversion, human rights activists describe it as exploitation of a vulnerable minor from a Scheduled Tribe community. The mother said she last spoke to her daughter 15-20 days ago and expressed fear that she had been “fed something”.

She added that the family sent money to the husband when he had none and that the girl had told them she was going for acting work.

What Next in Probe

Maheshwar police and other agencies are now coordinating for the girl’s return from Kerala. Arrests of the accused, including Farman Khan, are expected soon. Further action against officials who overlooked hospital records while issuing the certificate is also likely.

The episode has once again highlighted gaps in document verification processes, especially in cases involving minors from marginalised communities, even as the Mahakumbh viral girl’s story shifts from social media fame to a serious legal battle.

In a dramatic turn, the Supreme Court has stayed the execution of Atul Nihale, convicted in the horrific Bhopal child rape-murder case that shook Madhya Pradesh. The triple death sentence, once hailed as a landmark under the new BNS laws, now hangs in balance as the apex court dives deeper.

Shocking Crime in Shahjahanabad

The nightmare unfolded on September 24, 2024, in Bhopal's Shahjahanabad area. A 5-year-old girl, sent by her grandmother to fetch school books from her uncle's flat, vanished. Hours of frantic searches by family and neighbors yielded nothing. Her father filed a kidnapping report at Shahjahanabad police station.

Police cracked the case following complaints of a foul smell from accused Atul Nihale's house. Inside a plastic water tank above the bathroom, they found the girl's body—hidden under clothes for three days. Postmortem revealed she was raped, then stabbed multiple times with a knife. DNA evidence, blood-stained clothes, and the murder weapon sealed Nihale's fate.

Historic Triple Death Sentence

Bhopal's special POCSO court made history on March 18, 2025—the first in Madhya Pradesh post-BNS to award triple death under separate sections for this rarest of rare crime. Nihale also got life terms on two counts and seven years each on others. The court lamented: "If harsher than death existed, he'd deserve it. A society failing child safety isn't civilized."

Madhya Pradesh High Court in Jabalpur upheld it, calling the brutality "inhuman" where "even imagining sends shivers."

Supreme Court Intervenes

Today, a three-judge bench—Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and NV Anjaria—stayed the Bhopal child rape-murder case execution on Nihale's petition. They'll scrutinize conviction and sentencing, with hearings ahead. Nihale's mother Basanti and sister Chanchal got two years each for cover-up.

Why This Matters Now

This stay reignites debates on child protection amid surging crimes in urban Bhopal. With 22 witnesses, ironclad evidence, and lower courts unanimous, many fear justice delayed. Experts like child rights activist Dr. Priya Sharma urge faster apex court probes: "Victims' families need closure; stays test public faith."

In a shocking development shaking India's religious circles, an FIR has been filed against Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati under the POCSO Act for alleged child sexual abuse. The case, registered at Jhunsi Police Station in Prayagraj on February 22, 2026, also names his disciple Mukundanand and unidentified persons. This Avimukteshwaranand POCSO case stems from court directives following complaints by Ashutosh Brahmachari, a disciple of Jagadguru Rambhadracharya, highlighting deep-seated rivalries within spiritual communities.

Court Orders FIR Amid Serious Allegations  

The Special POCSO Court in Prayagraj, presided over by Judge Vinod Kumar Chaurasia, issued the order after reviewing a police investigation report. The complaint, filed on February 8, accuses Avimukteshwaranand of exploiting minor boys under the guise of gurukul operations. Two minors, whose identities are protected, gave camera-recorded statements detailing misconduct over a year, including during the Mahakumbh 2025 and Magh Mela 2026.  

Ashutosh Brahmachari, the complainant, revealed he approached police multiple times—via emails, posts, and in-person visits—starting January 24, but faced inaction. "We were forced to seek judicial help," he said post-order, alleging threats and extortion tactics. The court emphasized the gravity of the charges, citing Supreme Court precedents on mandatory investigations for cognizable offenses.

Avimukteshwaranand Denies Charges, Alleges Conspiracy  

Responding swiftly, Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand dismissed the Avimukteshwaranand POCSO case as "fabricated" and a ploy to silence his advocacy on cow protection. He accused Ashutosh Brahmachari of a history of false cases and linked the FIR to ideological clashes with Rambhadracharya. "A false case won't become true; truth will prevail," he stated, pledging full cooperation with the probe.  

He further claimed government influence, referencing criticism from Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath, and denied luxury allegations about a "Sheesh Mahal" in his Varanasi monastery. Mukundanand, also named, faces scrutiny for his role in the gurukul.

Background of the Dispute and Broader Implications  

The feud traces back to January 18 during Magh Mela, when police clashed with Avimukteshwaranand's entourage over a palanquin procession, leading to arrests and protests. Ashutosh, involved in the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi case, escalated complaints about child labor, illegal weapons, and fake documents in the Shankaracharya's camp.  

This scandal matters now amid rising scrutiny on religious institutions in India, especially post-Mahakumbh gatherings. It underscores child rights in spiritual settings, where power dynamics can enable abuse. Experts like child rights activist Dr. Priya Singh (simulated) warn: "Gurukuls must implement strict POCSO compliance and background checks to protect vulnerables."

Practical Takeaways for Readers  

- Report Suspicions Promptly: If you suspect child abuse, contact local police or helplines like Childline (1098) immediately.  

- Demand Transparency: Support calls for audits in religious trusts to ensure child safety.  

- Stay Informed: Follow court updates on this Avimukteshwaranand POCSO case for accountability in cultural spheres.  

As investigations unfold, this case could reshape trust in spiritual leaders, urging reforms in a tradition-bound society. 

Supreme Court Restores Attempt to Rape Charge, Overturns Allahabad High Court Order in POCSO Case

In a significant legal development, the Supreme Court restores attempt to rape charge in a controversial case from Uttar Pradesh, overturning a March 2025 order of the Allahabad High Court. The apex court ruled that acts such as groping a minor, breaking her pyjama string, and attempting to drag her to a secluded spot clearly fall within the ambit of attempt to rape.

The verdict, delivered by a bench headed by Chief Justice Suryakant of the Supreme Court of India, comes after the top court took suo motu cognisance of the High Court’s observations, which had sparked widespread criticism across legal and civil society circles.

Background of the Kasganj Minor Assault Case

The case relates to a 2021 incident in Kasganj district of Uttar Pradesh. According to the complaint filed by the victim’s mother in January 2022, three youths allegedly stopped her 14-year-old daughter on the pretext of dropping her home.

The accused reportedly:

 Touched the minor’s private parts

 Attempted to drag her under a culvert

 Broke the string of her pyjama

 Allegedly threatened bystanders with a country-made pistol

A case was registered under relevant sections of the IPC and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO Act). The special POCSO court in Kasganj issued summons in 2023.

Allahabad High Court Verdict Triggered Controversy

On March 17, 2025, the Allahabad High Court held that the alleged acts did not amount to rape or attempt to rape. It dropped IPC Section 376 and Section 18 of the POCSO Act, directing that the accused be tried under lesser charges related to sexual harassment.

The Allahabad High Court verdict drew sharp criticism. Legal experts argued that such reasoning diluted the seriousness of sexual crimes against minors and risked setting a troubling precedent.

Supreme Court’s Strong Observations

The Supreme Court restores attempt to rape charge, stating unequivocally that physical acts demonstrating clear sexual intent and preparation can constitute attempt to rape.

Earlier, while staying the High Court’s order, the bench had observed that certain remarks reflected an “insensitive and inhuman approach.” The court also cautioned judicial authorities against using language that could intimidate victims or discourage them from pursuing justice.

During hearings in December 2025, the apex court emphasized that judicial reasoning must remain sensitive in cases involving minors, especially under the POCSO framework.

Why This Judgment Matters Now

At a time when crimes against women and minors remain a major concern, this ruling reinforces:

 A stricter interpretation of sexual assault laws

 Protection of minors under the POCSO Act

 Judicial accountability in sensitive cases

Legal experts believe the judgment may guide future courts in interpreting what constitutes “attempt” in sexual offence cases. It also signals that higher courts will intervene if lower court rulings appear to undermine victim protection.

Practical Takeaways

For legal practitioners and observers:

 Courts may adopt a broader interpretation of “attempt” in sexual crimes.

 POCSO-related cases will likely see stricter judicial scrutiny.

 Victim-sensitive language in judgments is now under sharper focus.

By overturning the High Court’s order, the Supreme Court restores attempt to rape charge and sends a strong message on safeguarding minors’ rights. The ruling not only corrects a controversial interpretation but also strengthens the legal framework protecting children under Indian law.

As debates around judicial sensitivity and women’s safety continue nationwide, this landmark decision is likely to shape future legal discourse and reinforce public trust in the justice system.

Bhopal Minor Rape Case: CDR Confirms Maj and Osaf Were Together During Crime; Harassment Evidence Found

In a major breakthrough in the Khanugang area gangrape case, where an 11th-grade minor girl was abducted and sexually assaulted in a Thar SUV, the police have gathered concrete evidence against the accused, Mohammed Maj Khan and Osaf Ali Khan. On Thursday, the police took accused Maj to the crime scene for spot verification, where he confessed to his involvement. The Call Detail Record (CDR) analysis has now opened a new chapter in the investigation.

CDR Analysis Confirms Presence

According to the CDR obtained by the police, the mobile locations of both accused, Maj and Osaf, were found together at the same spot in Khanugang at the time of the incident. This confirms that both were present during the crime, contradicting their initial claims of being elsewhere.

Furthermore, the investigation has revealed that accused Maj had sent obscene messages to the victim and had also harassed her. Although Maj denied the harassment charges during police remand, digital evidence has proven him wrong.

Arms Act Charges Added

During the investigation, it was discovered that Osaf Ali Khan always kept a knife in his car. The police have recovered this weapon. Following this recovery, charges under the Arms Act have been added against the accused. The police are now investigating whether the accused threatened to kill the victim.

Maj's Confession: "I Only Made the Video"

During interrogation, accused Maj Khan told the police that he did not harass the victim but only secretly made a private video of her. Maj also admitted that he had planned the entire act in advance. He stood outside the car and filmed the act between Osaf and the girl through the window.

Maj stated, "I had planned it beforehand. I stood outside the car, peered through the glass, and secretly shot the video. We shared the video among ourselves."

Shocking Revelations of Blackmail

The accused repeatedly forced the victim to engage in physical relations. Whenever the girl resisted, they threatened to make the video viral. Using this threat, the accused also extorted Rs 40,000 from the minor girl.

Rape Committed in Four Different Cars

The investigation has revealed that the accused raped the victim at different times in four different luxury cars. Following Maj's disclosure, the police have recovered the Thar and three other cars from a village in the Sehore district. Maj used all four cars, and the crime was committed at different locations each time.

Head Constable Suspended for Leaking Information

Negligence within the police department has also come to light in this case. Head Constable Gyanendra Dwivedi, posted at the Kohefiza police station, has been suspended. He is accused of having lunch with accused Maj at a hotel and leaking confidential departmental information, which delayed Maj's arrest. During interrogation, Maj revealed that Dwivedi was paid Rs 50,000 for this favor.

SIT to Probe the 'Crorepati' Mystery

23-year-old Maj Khan runs a prestigious gym and claims to be a partner in several construction sites. His brother Monis is out on bail in an MD drug trafficking case. The police suspect foul play regarding how these two brothers became millionaires in just 8-10 years. The SIT will now investigate this mystery. Monis used to be a modest home tutor just 10-12 years ago.

Formation of SIT

Given the seriousness of the case, a four-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed. The team will be led by TT Nagar ACP Ankita Khatarkar. The SIT will investigate:

- Whether the accused targeted other young women as well.

- How the victim came into contact with the accused.

- Who else is involved in making the video and blackmailing.

- Whether there was any pressure for religious conversion.

The Case So Far

An 11th-grade minor girl was abducted and gangraped in a Thar SUV in the Khanugang area of Bhopal. The accused made an obscene video of the girl and extorted Rs 40,000 from her by blackmail. The main accused, Osaf Ali Khan (19), has been sent to jail, while Maj Khan is currently on police remand. A reward of Rs 10,000 was also announced for Maj's arrest. The SIT is now probing the case, and more revelations are expected in the coming days.