The Tamil Nadu Police have apprehended M Raghu Rajakumar, a 54-year-old AG church pastor, who had been evading authorities for five months following accusations of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl. The arrest occurred on 6 May 2024 after an investigation into the alleged incident, which reportedly occurred during the girl’s visits to the church situated on Eri Theru (Lake Street) in Ranipet, as per media accounts.
The victim’s mother grew suspicious of her daughter’s changed behavior, and after much hesitation, the girl finally disclosed the traumatic experiences she had endured at the hands of the pastor. On December 2023, the girl’s mother took the brave step of approaching the Ranipet All Women police station to file a complaint. Subsequently, the police registered a First Information Report (FIR) under sections 7, 8, 9, and 9(1) of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, as well as section 506 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
Upon learning about the police case, the pastor went into hiding. However, the diligent efforts of the police paid off when they received a tip about the pastor’s whereabouts. Acting swiftly, they arrested him on 9th May and presented him before the Ranipet Magistrate Court. Subsequently, the court ordered his judicial custody. Many have noted that this is not the first instance of such a case coming to light in Tamil Nadu.
There has been a disturbing trend of church pastors targeting teenage girls and young women who visit churches for prayer or confession. It is crucial to recognize the life-altering trauma experienced by these young victims and to ensure that their stories receive the serious attention they deserve from the public and authorities alike.
(With Inputs From Organiser)
Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.