The Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) staged a demonstration in Nagercoil on [date], demanding the immediate release of a 55-year-old Pentecostal pastor arrested last week under the POCSO Act for allegedly sexually assaulting a 17-year-old boy during a Vacation Bible School (VBS) program in Kanyakumari district.
The protestors, led by VCK district functionaries, gathered outside the Nagercoil Collectorate, claiming the arrest of Pastor Varghese was “politically motivated” and an “attack on religious freedom.”
This comes after the Thuckalay Police registered a case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act based on a complaint by the minor’s family, who alleged their son was abused during a church-run VBS program. The victim reportedly returned home traumatized, with visible injuries, and revealed the assault after days of distress.
Pastor’s Troubled History
Investigations reveal this is not the first accusation against Varghese. In 2008, a married woman had accused him of sexual exploitation under the guise of “spiritual counseling,” but no FIR was filed. Sources claim the matter was suppressed due to political influence during the DMK regime under M. Karunanidhi.
Police sources also indicate that Varghese’s phone contains disturbing images and videos of multiple alleged victims, including minors and women, yet no further cases have been registered.
The VCK’s protest has sparked controversy, with critics questioning why a party that champions Dalit and minority rights is rallying behind an accused child predator. Social activists allege a broader pattern of impunity for church-linked figures in Tamil Nadu, where such cases are often buried due to political and institutional protection.
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