Bagalkot: A hostel warden is facing charges of sexually harassing minor girl students, leading to the registration of a case by the police. The incident occurred at a residential school in Bilagi taluk, where the warden allegedly engaged in inappropriate behavior with several students over the past three months.

Incident Details:

• The hostel warden is accused of sexually harassing girl students, with parents and students coming forward to report the incidents.
• Several students and their parents filed a complaint, alleging that the warden inappropriately touched and harassed three to four students.
• The incidents of harassment reportedly caused emotional distress to the students.

Actions Taken:

• Nanda Hanabaratti, Deputy Director (Social Welfare), received complaints from parents two days ago and forwarded a report to the Karnataka Residential Education Institutions Society (KREIS) executive director.
• The KREIS deputy director emphasized zero tolerance for sexual harassment cases and announced the initiation of a departmental inquiry, ensuring severe action against the accused.
• A case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act has been registered based on the school principal’s complaint.

Accused’s Behavior:

• The accused warden allegedly targeted 4-5 girl students, engaging in inappropriate physical contact and making vulgar comments about their bodies.
• Despite warnings from parents, the warden did not change his behavior and reportedly disappeared after taking a two-day leave when the complaints were filed.

Legal Proceedings:

• A case has been registered under the POCSO Act, and the police have informed the district juvenile justice board for further action.
• The accused warden is currently absconding after the case was registered against him.

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