Yadgir godman moves HC to quash Pocso case

Yadgir: Self-proclaimed godman Mallikarjun Muthya approached the Kalaburagi bench of the Karnataka high court, seeking to quash the Pocso case registered against him, even as police continue efforts to trace and arrest him.In his petition, Muthya contended that the parents of the alleged minor victim did not lodge any complaint, and that the FIR was registered suo motu by the police. The plea was reportedly filed from an undisclosed location — the accused currently absconding.The case was registered at Gogi police station based on a complaint filed by the child development project officer of Shahapur taluk after a video, allegedly showing Muthya misbehaving with a minor girl, went viral on social media, sparking widespread outrage.SP Prithvi Shankar said the investigation is being carried out strictly as per law. "A case was registered under the Pocso Act, and all aspects are being examined. Efforts are on to secure the accused and record statements from those concerned," the SP added.The Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights also took suo motu cognisance of the incident. Commission chairman Shashidhar Kosambe stated the panel has asked district police to conduct a thorough probe and submit a detailed report at the earliest.Meanwhile, supporters of Muthya gathered at his mutt and demanded withdrawal of the case within two days, alleging a conspiracy to defame him. "If the case is not withdrawn, we will stage protests across the district," a devotee said.Similar sentiments were echoed by MLC Thippannappa Kamakanur, who alleged that the entire episode appears to be an attempt to defame Muthya. The child's parents claimed that the viral footage was doctored. "We are simply sharing a happy moment with Muthya, and there was nothing inappropriate in his behaviour," they said.Police have appealed for calm, stating the matter is under investigation, and action will be based on evidence and legal provisions.