NewsFlash Daily™
22 March
Teacher’s complaint alleges repeated assault from 2018–2023, FIR registered under serious IPC sections amid mounting controversy
Mangaluru: In a dramatic turn of events in Dakshina Kannada district, a rape case has been registered against Moodbidri Inspector Sandesh, just a day after police publicly termed earlier sexual harassment allegations against him as false and motivated. The development has triggered fresh controversy and raised serious questions over the case.
FIR Registered on Teacher’s Complaint
The case has been filed at the Venur Police Station in Belthangady taluk based on a complaint lodged by a teacher. According to the complaint, the accused officer allegedly visited her residence multiple times between 2018 and 2023, threatened her, and subjected her to repeated sexual assault.
Serious Charges Invoked Under IPC
Police have registered the FIR under Sections 376(2)(a)(1), 376(2)(n), 384, and 506 of the IPC, indicating charges of rape, repeated assault, extortion, and criminal intimidation. At the time of the alleged incidents, Sandesh was serving as the Circle Inspector of Venur Police Station.
Contradiction After ‘False Allegations’ Report
The FIR comes shortly after a police report dismissed earlier allegations made by two women as baseless and provoked claims.
“The women who approached the media were not harassed. The allegations were found to be false and motivated,” Police Commissioner Sudhir Kumar Reddy had stated.
However, the fresh complaint has now placed the officer in a serious legal predicament, contradicting the earlier official findings.
Audio-Video Evidence Triggered Probe
Sources said that audio and video clips linked to the victim’s allegations surfaced recently, prompting authorities to initiate a deeper probe. ACP Srikanth was assigned to investigate the matter and submit a detailed report.
Political and Institutional Pressure Mounts
The case has drawn attention from political and institutional quarters. MLA Umanath Kotian reportedly met the Home Minister, urging immediate suspension and a fair investigation into the allegations.
Meanwhile, the Karnataka State Women’s Commission took suo motu cognizance of the issue and sought a report from the Mangaluru Police Commissioner.
Inspector Suspended Amid Probe
Following these developments, Inspector Sandesh has been suspended from service pending investigation. Authorities have assured that a thorough and impartial inquiry will be conducted.
Case Raises Questions on Accountability
The case has sparked widespread debate over accountability within law enforcement, especially when serious allegations emerge against serving officers. Legal experts emphasize the need for transparent investigation and the protection of the complainant’s rights.
