Politics
Karnataka: Catholic Priest Serving As Principal Of Diocese-run College In Shivamogga Arrested For Sexually Assaulting Minor Girl From Banjara community
Shivamogga Diocese
A Catholic priest who was also as the principal of a diocese-run college in a Shivamogga in Karnataka has been arrested by local police for sexually assaulting minor girl belonging to the Banjara community.
Kote Police registered a case against Father Francis Fernandes, principal of Sacred Heart College under Shimoga diocese in Karnataka, under Section 3 of POCSO Act (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012) and Section 8 and 12 of the SC & ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 2016. He underwent a medical examination before being presented before the court.
Jesuit Bishop Francis Serrao of Shivamogga diocese confirmed to the Union Of Catholic Asian News that the priest had been arrested and remanded.
Protesters from the Banjara community gathered outside a police station in Shivamogga, demanding stringent action against the church priest who has been accused of sexually abusing a minor from their community. The Banjara community, also known as the Lamani or Lambani community, is a traditionally nomadic community and has a strong presence in Shivamogga district
According to the police, the school where the incident took place is affiliated with the pastor’s church.
Support Swarajya's 50 Ground Reports Project & Sponsor A Story
Every general election Swarajya does a 50 ground reports project.
Aimed only at serious readers and those who appreciate the nuances of political undercurrents, the project provides a sense of India's electoral landscape. As you know, these reports are produced after considerable investment of travel, time and effort on the ground.
This time too we've kicked off the project in style and have covered over 30 constituencies already. If you're someone who appreciates such work and have enjoyed our coverage please consider sponsoring a ground report for just Rs 2999 to Rs 19,999 - it goes a long way in helping us produce more quality reportage.
You can also back this project by becoming a subscriber for as little as Rs 999 - so do click on this links and choose a plan that suits you and back us.
Click below to contribute.
Latest
