Astrologer Kamalakar Bhat faces POCSO case while in jail in murder probe
Karwar : Astrologer Kamalakar Bhat, who is currently lodged in jail in connection with the Vasanth Naik murder case, has been booked in yet another serious case — this time under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
Bhat, who had earned prominence as a self-styled astrologer and reportedly amassed wealth, property and political connections over the years, is already under judicial custody in connection with a high-profile murder investigation. However, his legal troubles have now deepened following allegations of sexual misconduct involving a minor girl.
According to police sources, a case under the POCSO Act has been registered at the Siddapur Police Station in Uttara Kannada district. The complaint alleges that Bhat inappropriately touched a minor girl, amounting to sexual assault. The alleged incident is said to have taken place within the jurisdiction of Thunganagar in Shivamogga district.
Police confirmed that the fresh case was registered while Bhat was already in custody over the murder case. Investigators said further inquiry is underway to verify the details of the complaint and record statements from the victim and witnesses.
In the murder case, Bhat had reportedly denied being present at the crime scene. During police interrogation, he is said to have maintained that he was elsewhere at the time of the killing and even asked investigators to verify his mobile phone location data. Subsequent analysis reportedly indicated that he was in Siddapur at the relevant time, though not at the exact location of the crime.
With the registration of the POCSO case, legal experts say Bhat’s chances of securing bail in the near future may become increasingly slim. The fresh charges add to the gravity of the accusations already against him.
The developments have shocked many in the region, where Bhat once enjoyed a reputation as a popular astrologer. Authorities have stated that both cases will proceed as per law and that no individual will be given special treatment.
Further investigation is ongoing.
