Thu Feb 26 05:38:31 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Karnataka Police Book Mutt Official Under POCSO Act After Viral Video

The Story:
On February 25, 2026, police in Gogi, Karnataka, booked 30-year-old Mallikarjun Mutya of Mahal Roja Mutt under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. This action followed the circulation of a video on social media allegedly showing Mutya misbehaving with a minor girl at the mutt on February 19, 2026. The police investigation was initiated after a complaint was filed by Mallanna Umapathi, the Child Development Project Officer, acting on instructions from the District Child Welfare Committee. The Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (KSCPCR) also registered a suo moto case.

The investigation involved multiple levels of inquiry, including the District Child Welfare Committee, a DCPO team, and the District Level Coordination Committee, all of which reviewed the video and conducted inquiries. The investigation concluded that the accused intentionally touched the minor girl inappropriately while she was on his lap. The incident was filmed by a relative who was visiting the mutt for a birthday celebration.

Key Points:

  • Mallikarjun Mutya, 30, of Mahal Roja Mutt, was booked under the POCSO Act on February 25, 2026.
  • The incident allegedly occurred on February 19, 2026, at the Mahal Roja Mutt in Shahapur taluk, Yadgir district.
  • A video of the alleged incident went viral on social media, prompting public outcry and demands for action.
  • The police action was initiated following a complaint from the Child Development Project Officer, acting on instructions from the District Child Welfare Committee.
  • The Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (KSCPCR) registered a suo moto case.
  • The investigation involved multiple committees, including the District Level Coordination Committee.
  • The video was allegedly uploaded to Instagram by a relative of the girl with the intention of gaining likes.
  • A case was registered under Section 75 (2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, and Section 12 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POSCO) Act 2012.

Key Takeaways:

  • The rapid spread of information via social media can quickly escalate cases involving alleged child abuse, prompting immediate investigation and action.
  • Government and child protection agencies are showing an increased responsiveness to incidents of child abuse, triggering multiple levels of inquiry and action.
  • The incident highlights the ongoing vulnerability of children within religious institutions and the need for stringent oversight and safeguarding measures.
  • The incident underscores the importance of awareness and responsible use of social media, as the video’s virality played a crucial role in prompting action.
  • The application of the POCSO Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita reflects the legal framework in place to address and punish such offenses.

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