Bihar Kathavachak Shravan Das Arrested in POCSO Case Involving Minor Girl

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Kathavachak Shravan Das, a religious preacher from Bihar's Mithilanchal region, was arrested in January 2026 after allegations of sexual assault involving a minor girl. The police have registered the case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, a strict law meant to protect children from sexual abuse.

According to police officials, the complaint was filed by the minor survivor's mother at the Mahila Police Station in Darbhanga. Based on the complaint, an FIR was registered, leading to Shravan Das's arrest after preliminary investigation.

The allegations include that the accused allegedly established contact with the minor under the pretext of marriage and later sexually assaulted her. Police sources have also stated that the case involves allegations of coercion related to abortion, which are currently under investigation.

Who Is Shravan Das?

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Shravan Das is a kathavachak, a religious storyteller who explains Hindu scriptures at public and religious gatherings. People in many semi-urban and rural areas often place a lot of trust in such figures, as religion plays an important role in everyday life.

However, there is no indication that Shravan Das holds any official religious authority or institutional position. His identity, as per police records and media reports, is that of an independent preacher who conducted religious storytelling sessions rather than a formally appointed spiritual leader.

Legal Proceedings and Police Action

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Shravan Das appeared before a special POCSO court after his arrest and was sent to judicial custody. Police have confirmed that the investigation is ongoing and that statements are being recorded as per legal protocol.

The other person named as a co-accused in the case is Ram Udit Das, also known as Mauni Baba. He is presently absconding, and searches are being conducted to track him down.

It was again reiterated that the matter is being dealt with as per the POCSO Act, as the act requires a child-friendly investigation and in-camera hearing in the courtroom to preserve the identity and dignity of the survivor.

The trial process will involve examination of evidence, witness testimonies, and medical and forensic reports before any judicial conclusion is reached.

At the same time, the POCSO Act places a strong emphasis on survivor protection and speedy trials, recognising the vulnerability of minors involved in such cases.

A Pattern Beyond One Case

This is not the first time allegations of sexual abuse have emerged against individuals projecting religious authority.

A spate of high-profile cases in the past ten years has shaken public faith in self-styled godmen and preachers. Asaram, once a spiritual leader with a big following, is serving a life term after conviction in multiple rape cases, including one involving a minor. Similarly, Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, chief of the Dera Sacha Sauda, was sentenced to 20 years in prison for raping two women. In Maharashtra, Swami Chinmayanand faced allegations under sexual harassment laws, while other lesser-known local preachers across states have also been booked under POCSO and IPC provisions.

What Happens Next

Police have stated that further action will depend on evidence gathered during the investigation and the arrest of the absconding co-accused. The matter will be heard in the POCSO courtroom, which is usually fast-tracked because it involves a minor.