Thrissur (Kerala), February 13 A temple priest was taken into custody for allegedly sexually abusing a minor girl while performing rituals at a temple in Kodungalloor, police said on Friday.
The accused, 48-year-old Shaji, a resident of Edavilangu near Kodungalloor, is alleged to have performed rituals at a temple in Edavilangu, claiming to resolve personal issues for the faithful.
According to police, while allegedly performing these rituals for the 14-year-old victim last year, Shaji sexually abused her.
The incident came to light recently when the victim revealed the abuse to a relative after refusing to attend another ceremony conducted by Shaji.
Based on a complaint filed by the girl's parents, Kodungalloor police registered a case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act on Thursday.
Investigators have confirmed that Shaji was picked up from his residence and is currently being interrogated.
His arrest is expected to be formally recorded soon, after which he will be produced before the court as part of the remand procedure.
