Man arrested after woman alleges assault during ritual at Thamarassery
Kozhikode police on Wednesday arrested a self‑styled godman from Engapuzha in connection with the alleged sexual assault of a newly married woman who had approached him for help with marital problems, officials said.
The accused has been identified as Anwar Sadath of Alanchery, Puthuppady. According to the complaint registered with the Thamarassery police, the woman and her husband had visited Sadath seeking a solution to difficulties in their marriage. The husband was reportedly handed a coconut and asked to stand outside while a mantra was chanted.
“He allegedly took the woman to another room and sexually assaulted her,” police said.
Police said the complainant later approached the station. A probe by a team led by the Thamarassery Deputy Superintendent of Police was launched and Sadath went into hiding after learning of the investigation, officials said. He was arrested when he returned to his house in Engapuzha.
Background and police record
Authorities noted that Sadath had previously been arrested in a case registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The presence of an earlier record has added to concerns among local residents about persons who claim supernatural or occult powers and offer remedies for personal or family problems.
- Location: Thamarassery (Kozhikode district)
- Accused: Anwar Sadath (Alanchery, Puthuppady)
- Allegation: Sexual assault of a newlywed woman during a ritual
- Police action: Investigation by Thamarassery DySP team; arrest at Engapuzha
Local context and concerns
Cases involving self‑styled spiritual practitioners have periodically surfaced in Kerala, prompting debate about regulation, community awareness and victim protection. In Kozhikode district, district police have in recent years emphasised swift action in sexual‑offence complaints and public advisories against dubious religious or occult cures.
Victims seeking help for family or marital issues are often vulnerable, police officers say, and requests for ritual ceremonies can provide opportunities for abuse. Legal remedies are available under Indian penal statutes and special laws such as the POCSO Act where minors are involved; this incident involves an adult complainant.
What the police have said and next steps
Investigating officers confirmed an FIR has been registered and further legal action will follow the completion of the probe. The matter is expected to proceed through the criminal-justice process, with charges framed on the basis of the complaint and forensic or medical reports, if any.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Accused | Anwar Sadath |
| Place | Thamarassery / Engapuzha (Kozhikode district) |
| Allegation | Sexual assault during a ritual; earlier POCSO‑related arrest on record |
| Investigation | Probe by Thamarassery DySP team; accused arrested on return to home |
Local civic‑watch groups and residents reacted with concern on social media and local messaging platforms after word of the arrest spread. Community leaders reiterated the need for victims to approach police promptly and for families to be cautious about engaging with individuals who promise supernatural remedies for personal problems.
The police have not released further details about the progress of the investigation or any forensic findings. Legal proceedings will determine the charges and subsequent course in court.
Officials urged anyone with information connected to the case to contact the Thamarassery police station to assist the inquiry.
