Daijiworld Media Network - Bhopal

Bhopal, Apr 10: A fresh controversy has erupted after the Khargone Police registered a case under the POCSO Act against Farman, husband of Monalisa, popularly known as the “Mahakumbh viral girl”, following confirmation that she is a minor.

Police have also invoked provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to criminal conspiracy and unlawful marriage, along with sections of the SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act.

According to findings by the National Commission for Scheduled Tribe, based on official hospital records, Monalisa was born on December 30, 2009, making her just over 16 years old at the time of her marriage on March 11.

Monalisa, belonging to the Pardhi tribal community, had gained nationwide attention during the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, where she was seen selling rudraksh garlands. A video of her went viral on social media, turning her into an overnight internet sensation.

Investigations revealed that the marriage was solemnised at a temple in Kerala based on Aadhaar details submitted by the couple. However, authorities later found that the birth certificate used for registration, issued by a municipal body, was allegedly forged and listed her date of birth as January 1, 2008.

The Commission has directed authorities to cancel the fraudulent certificate.

The Commission has also flagged the alleged role of certain political actors and organisations in facilitating the marriage. Advocate Pratham Dubey, who raised the matter before the panel, alleged involvement of leaders linked to the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and members of the Popular Front of India.

He further claimed that the marriage was orchestrated to build a counter-narrative around the concept of “Love Jihad”.

The Commission has summoned the Directors General of Police of Kerala and Madhya Pradesh to New Delhi on April 22 and has sought progress reports every three days until the case is resolved.