Bengaluru police have arrested yoga guru Niranjan Murthy on charges of sexually assaulting a minor girl and preying on eight other women. Police have appealed to victims to come forward.
Bengaluru: Karnataka Police have arrested yoga guru Niranjan Murthy on charges of sexually assaulting a minor girl. Police investigation revealed that Murthy also preyed on more than six women who came to learn yoga. Police have appealed to the victimized women to come forward and file a complaint.
Victim Files Complaint Against Yoga Guru
The 17-year-old victim bravely filed a complaint against the yoga guru. The complaint stated that she had known Murthy since 2019 and had been participating in yoga competitions since 2021. In 2023, she was also taken to Thailand for an event, where Niranjan Murthy allegedly sexually assaulted her.
The victim further stated that the accused sexually assaulted her by promising to help her win medals and secure a job. After this incident, the victim stopped participating in yoga competitions. Based on her statement, the police registered a case under the POCSO Act and arrested Murthy.
Women Allege Exploitation at Yoga Center
According to Bengaluru police, Niranjan Murthy operates a yoga center in Rajarajeshwari Nagar. Police investigation revealed that Murthy also exploited eight women who attended his yoga classes. This includes several young women. The accused leveraged his position and reputation as a yoga trainer for a long time to influence his victims.
Police stated that any victim who has experienced sexual harassment or rape by the yoga guru can come forward and file a complaint at the Rajarajeshwari Nagar police station. The identity of the complainant will be kept confidential.
Yoga Guru Exploited Position of Power
Niranjan Murthy had been running a yoga center in Rajarajeshwari Nagar for many years. He is also the secretary of the Karnataka Yogasana Sports Association (KYSA). The accused used his position and reputation to influence victims and establish physical relations with them. Police state that this case highlights the seriousness of sexual exploitation in the yoga industry and sports associations.
Considering the seriousness of this matter, the police have appealed to all potential female victims to come forward. This case not only brings to light local issues but also emphasizes the need for safety and oversight in the yoga industry across the entire state.
Accused Niranjan Murthy Arrested
Police have arrested Niranjan Murthy under the POCSO Act and initiated further investigation. The police team is examining all facts and attempting to identify other women exploited by the accused. Police state that strict legal action will be taken against the accused.
The SP Bengaluru stated that ensuring the safety of women and minors in yoga centers and other institutions is the administration's priority. He also added that immediate action would be taken upon receiving any report of abuse against a woman or minor.
