A religious preacher, identified as Sharan Das (also known as Shravan Thakur), has been taken into police custody following allegations of raping a minor. Authorities confirmed the arrest took place on Saturday in connection with a case filed under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. Following his appearance in a specialised POCSO court, the accused was sent to judicial custody for a period of 14 days.
The legal proceedings began on December 19, 2025, after the victim's mother filed a formal complaint at the local Mahila police station. According to investigators, the survivor claimed that the preacher sexually assaulted her under the false pretence of marriage. The complaint further details that the minor was coerced into undergoing an abortion during the period of abuse.
The First Information Report (FIR) also identifies a second individual, Ram Udit Das (alias Mauni), as an accomplice in the case. Law enforcement officials stated that while Sharan Das is currently behind bars, the second suspect remains at large, and efforts to locate him are ongoing.

Police apprehend Sharan Das for alleged sexual assault and forced abortion

Religious Leader Arrested in Minor’s Rape Case

Police apprehend Sharan Das for alleged sexual assault and forced abortion

January 19, 2026 | 10:34 IST