Karnataka: Catholic Priest Serving As Principal Of Diocese-run College In Shivamogga Arrested For Sexually Assaulting Minor Girl From Banjara community

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.