Belagavi, Aug 6
A 22-year-old Moulvi was arrested by the Karnataka Police in connection with the alleged rape of a five-year-old girl in the state's Belagavi district, police said on Wednesday.
The police said that the incident, which took place in 2023, came to light after the CCTV footage went viral on social media.
The police were able to identify the Moulvi and the girl's parents, leading to the accused's arrest.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday, Belagavi Superintendent of Police (SP) Bheemashankar S. Guled said, "Hindu activist Punith Kerehalli had posted a message regarding the case on August 5. The video clip showed a person lying on the girl. The information was immediately provided to the Cybercrimes, Economic and Narcotics Offences (CEN) police station."
The accused had attempted to rape the girl, who lived in the house next to the mosque, the SP added.
After the video went viral, police contacted the victim's parents and attempted to persuade them to file a complaint.
Since the vuctim's parents would not agree, the Child Welfare Committee filed the case on their behalf.
The accused Moulvi worked as a welder and delivered speeches at the mosque whenever he was free.
Further investigation in the case is underway.