Tue Mar 10 11:59:04 UTC 2026: ### Self-Styled Godman in Karnataka Denied Anticipatory Bail in POCSO Case

The Story:
A district court in Karnataka has denied anticipatory bail to Mallikarjun Muthya, a 26-year-old self-styled godman, who is accused of misbehaving with a minor girl. Muthya, associated with the Mahal Roja Mutt in Shahapur, Yadgir district, is facing charges under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The case was registered after a video circulated on social media allegedly showing Muthya behaving inappropriately with a girl in the presence of her parents. He has been absconding since the case was filed.

Key Points:

  • Mallikarjun Muthya, a 26-year-old self-styled godman, has been denied anticipatory bail.
  • He faces charges under the POCSO Act and sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for allegedly misbehaving with a minor.
  • The case originated from a video circulating on social media purportedly showing Muthya’s inappropriate behavior with a girl.
  • The Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights took suo motu cognisance of the matter.
  • Police have intensified efforts to arrest him and are examining digital evidence.
  • Muthya’s supporters are protesting, claiming his innocence and arguing that he treats all girls as daughters.

Key Takeaways:

  • The denial of anticipatory bail suggests the court views the allegations against Mallikarjun Muthya as serious.
  • The suo motu action by the Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights underscores the gravity with which authorities are treating cases of potential child abuse.
  • The protests by Muthya’s supporters highlight the complexities of such cases, where community beliefs can clash with legal proceedings.
  • The police are focusing on digital evidence, indicating the increasing importance of technology in investigating such crimes.
  • The case draws attention to the potential vulnerability of children in religious settings and the need for vigilance and accountability.

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