Kalaburagi: A disturbing incident involving the alleged sexual assault of a mentally ill woman has been reported from a village in Jevargi taluk of Kalaburagi district, triggering widespread condemnation and calls for strict action against the accused.
According to sources, the victim had been staying at a local monastery in Andola village under Jevargi taluk for some time. The woman, believed to be originally from Yadgir district, was reportedly mentally unstable and had been living in the mutt premises where villagers occasionally provided her food and support.
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Police said the accused, identified as Mushtaq Hussain, a resident of the same village, allegedly took advantage of the woman’s vulnerable condition. It is alleged that he lured the woman away from the monastery and took her to a nearby agricultural field on the pretext of helping her.
According to local residents, some youths became suspicious after noticing the man taking the woman away. They reportedly followed him and later reached the field, where they were shocked to witness the alleged assault. The youths then recorded the incident on their mobile phones.
Sources said that when the accused realised he had been caught, he panicked and pleaded with the youths not to expose him. However, the video of the incident was later uploaded on social media by a local youth, following which it quickly went viral.
The disturbing visuals triggered strong public outrage, with many citizens and activists condemning the alleged crime and demanding strict punishment for the accused. The incident has also raised serious concerns about the safety of vulnerable individuals, particularly those suffering from mental illness.
After the video surfaced online, authorities took note of the matter. Based on a complaint filed by the Child Development Project Officer (CDPO) of Jevargi, police registered a First Information Report at Jevargi Police Station.
Police officials said a case has been registered under relevant sections related to sexual assault. However, soon after learning about the FIR, the accused reportedly fled the village and has since been absconding.
Police teams have launched a search operation to trace and arrest the accused. Officers said they are verifying the video footage and gathering additional evidence as part of the investigation.
The incident has drawn condemnation from local residents and social activists who have demanded swift justice for the victim and stronger protection measures for vulnerable people living in religious institutions and shelters.
Authorities said further investigation is underway and assured that strict action will be taken once the accused is apprehended.
