THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Puthoor police in Kollam have registered a case against an astrologer following a complaint that he sexually assaulted a 16-year-old girl under the pretext of performing an exorcism.
The accused has been identified as Rajan Babu, also known as VS Murari Thantri, a native of Vendar in Kollam. He has been charged under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and is currently absconding.
According to police, the girl and her mother had earlier approached Rajan Babu seeking astrological guidance. He allegedly convinced them that the family's troubles were caused by a malevolent spirit that had possessed the girl and claimed that it could be removed through an exorcism. Acting on his assurance, the mother and daughter visited his residence in Vendar on Sunday.
The duo reached the house around 11 am but were granted an appointment only by 3 pm. The astrologer then reportedly took the girl inside. When she did not return even after more than two hours, the mother grew suspicious and went inside, where she found her daughter in tears. The girl then disclosed the alleged sexual assault.
Local residents gathered in protest outside the astrologer's house. Amid the protests, Rajan Babu is believed to have fled the scene. Puthoor SHO C Babukkurup said that efforts are underway to trace the accused and that he will be arrested soon.