📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / BHARATHESHA ALASANDEMAJALU
Crime
Police Inquiry Clears Mangaluru Priest in POCSO Case
✍️ The Indian Express
🗓 21 Oct 2026, 03:47 AM
👁 17
A pre‑arrest police inquiry has found no evidence against a Mangaluru priest in a POCSO case, clearing him of all allegations.
A pre‑arrest police inquiry conducted in Mangalore has cleared a local priest of all charges in a POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) case. The investigation, carried out before any arrest was made, found no evidence linking the priest to the alleged sexual abuse of a child.
The POCSO case had initially led to the priest’s arrest on suspicion of molesting a minor. However, the inquiry, which examined police records, forensic reports and witness statements, concluded that the allegations were unsubstantiated.
Police officials said the inquiry was undertaken to ensure that no one was wrongfully detained. They also highlighted that the findings were shared with the court, which had previously directed the investigation.
The outcome has relieved the priest and his community, but authorities remain vigilant. The police have reiterated that any new evidence will be investigated promptly, underscoring the seriousness with which POCSO cases are treated.
The POCSO case had initially led to the priest’s arrest on suspicion of molesting a minor. However, the inquiry, which examined police records, forensic reports and witness statements, concluded that the allegations were unsubstantiated.
Police officials said the inquiry was undertaken to ensure that no one was wrongfully detained. They also highlighted that the findings were shared with the court, which had previously directed the investigation.
The outcome has relieved the priest and his community, but authorities remain vigilant. The police have reiterated that any new evidence will be investigated promptly, underscoring the seriousness with which POCSO cases are treated.