Bhagwan Kokare Maharaj, the head of the Warkari Gurukul located in Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra, along with teacher Pritesh Prabhakar Kadam, have been arrested on charges of sexually assaulting a minor female student residing within the institution. The young girl, admitted to the Gurukul on June 12, 2025, revealed that the abuse began after eight days of her joining.
She accused Kokare Maharaj of repeatedly entering her room, physically assaulting and inappropriately touching her, while Kadam reportedly threatened her against speaking out, warning of grave consequences for her and her family. Following the girl’s disclosure to her father on October 13, a police complaint was filed, and a case registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
The accused are in two-day police custody as investigations continue. Local political leaders and child protection officials have raised concerns, suggesting there may be additional victims and emphasising the need for thorough inquiry and victim support.
Understanding the Allegations
The survivor is a minor girl who had joined the Warkari Gurukul, an institution that offers spiritual education and draws children from multiple parts of Maharashtra. Initially, her stay was reported to be without incident until eight days into her admission.
She has alleged that Kokare Maharaj exploited his position of authority to sexually assault her within the Gurukul premises. According to her statement, the abuse included physical violence, punching, and inappropriate touching.
She described the fear and intimidation tactics used to silence her. Teacher Kadam allegedly warned that reporting the incident would have cruel repercussions, including implicating her father and threatening the lives of her and her brother. The victim was further cautioned that her education and future would be jeopardised if she spoke out. The police have recorded these statements as part of formal proceedings.
Following the revelation to her father, the family promptly approached the Khed police station, leading to the filing of a First Information Report (FIR) under sections 12 and 17 of the POCSO Act, which cover sexual harassment and abetment of a sexual offence against a child.
Both accused were arrested and remanded to two-day custody pending further investigation. Authorities have ensured that the survivor is receiving appropriate counselling and is in a safe environment away from the accused.
The Gurukul and Community Response
The Warkari Gurukul situated in Lote village of Khed taluka is traditionally seen as a centre for moral and spiritual education under the Warkari sect, a religious movement emphasising devotion. The Gurukul attracts boys and girls from various districts hoping to imbibe spiritual values through traditional teachings.
The allegations have sent shockwaves through the community and the wider religious followers. Many parents and local residents have expressed grief and disbelief, demanding full transparency and swift action to protect children attending such institutions. Community leaders have also called for an open inquiry to ensure that no other child has fallen prey to abuse within the Gurukul.
Political figures have weighed in, with Shiv Sena MLA Bhaskar Jadhav alleging that the incident may not be isolated and other victims may exist who have suffered silently. He criticised the accused’s alleged political connections and vowed to expose any supporting networks, underscoring the risks posed when power and influence shield perpetrators. Such statements have added urgency to the investigation and sparked broader debates on child safety within educational and religious institutions.
Laws, Investigations, and the Road Ahead
Under Sections 12 and 17 of the POCSO Act, sexual harassment and abetment of sexual offences punishable by stringent penalties, the police’s swift action in arresting the accused is a positive step toward justice. Continued investigation will rely heavily on evidence collection, witness testimonies, and probable forensic examinations.
The police have assured cooperation from the Gurukul management and authorities to facilitate a thorough legal process. Meanwhile, social workers and child rights organisations involved are providing counselling and protection services to the survivor to help her recover from the trauma.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The Logical Indian unequivocally condemns sexual misconduct, particularly within institutions entrusted with children’s welfare and education. The betrayal of trust by figures of spiritual and educational authority must serve as a wake-up call to reinforce child protection mechanisms in all settings.
Our commitment is to peace, empathy, and harmony prevalent in society, which foundationally depend on justice and the safety of the most vulnerable. Silence and stigma around such offences enable perpetrators and perpetuate cycles of trauma. Societal efforts must focus on empowering survivors to speak freely and ensuring their voices are heard and acted upon.
In the face of political influence or social pressure, an independent, transparent investigation aided by community solidarity is essential to restore faith in institutions. This is not merely about punishment but about fostering safe and nurturing environments for children’s growth.
