Shockwaves in Gadag: Seer Faces POCSO Charges Over Allegations of Exploitation

The Gadag district police have registered a POCSO case against Vachanananda Swami, a seer, after allegations emerged from the parents of a minor boy, accusing him of harassment and sexual exploitation. The complaint was initially lodged at Lakshmeshwar Police Station, which subsequently led to a registered 'Zero FIR.'

The incident, involving a 14-year-old boy staying at a hostel run by Veerashaiva Lingayat Panchamasali Gurupeetha, prompted the case transfer to Harihara Rural Police Station in Davangere district. The boy's parents alleged that between 2021 and 2024, their son was subjected to exploitation, including being coerced into massaging the seer under threat of severe consequences.

Following the allegations, Vachanananda Swami was expelled from his position at the religious math. Authorities have recorded the statements of both the complainant and the boy, and a medical examination is in progress as part of the detailed investigation currently underway.

(With inputs from agencies.)