The Karnataka High Court has expressed deep concern over a lower court granting bail to prominent Lingayat seer Vachananda Swamiji, calling it “shocking.” The seer had been granted anticipatory bail in a Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) case by the Davanagere District Court. Allegations against him include child abuse and atrocities committed at his mutt.
The High Court, led by Justice M. Nagaprasanna, criticized the lower court for granting bail before a formal police complaint was even filed. The court found this action inappropriate, especially considering the serious nature of the POCSO sections involved. The accused seer has been served a notice by the High Court, and the case has been adjourned to June 23.
Children at the mutt had previously accused the seer of verbal abuse and harassment, leading to a visit by the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) and a subsequent formal complaint by a victim’s mother. The police conducted investigations, questioned the seer, and carried out medical examinations. The seer, fearing arrest after the case was registered, obtained anticipatory bail from the district court.
Amidst ongoing investigations, the Investigation Officer of the POCSO case against the seer was unexpectedly transferred, causing controversy. The transfer occurred following a complaint by the Harihara Panchamasali Peetha Trust office-bearers, alleging improper investigation. As a result, the SP of Davanagere transferred the investigating officer, sparking debate over the handling of the case.
