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Puttur, Karnataka: As 2025 draws to a close, the high-profile case involving Pooja Acharya remains unresolved, with the latest major development being the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) expulsion of local leader P.G. Jagannivas Rao on December 29.

The expulsion stems from Rao’s son, Srikrishna J. Rao, allegedly refusing to marry the victim despite DNA evidence confirming his paternity of her child.

Expulsion Details And Party Stance

BJP Dakshina Kannada District President Satish Kumpala announced the expulsion, citing Jagannivas Rao’s failure to ensure his son takes responsibility by marrying Acharya.

This move distances the party from the controversy, which has persisted for over six months.

Ongoing Stalemate And Advocacy

Community leader K.P. Nanjundi, state president of Vishwakarma Mahamandala, recently highlighted the deadlock.

He stated that despite mediation efforts and family promises, the accused’s side has imposed “impossible conditions” for settlement, making amicable resolution unfeasible.

Nanjundi emphasised that Acharya, now a mother, has fought for justice for six to seven months without success, calling for a fair resolution.

As of December 31, 2025, no new court hearings or police actions have been reported today.

Case Recap

June 2025: Acharya files a complaint alleging that Srikrishna Rao promised marriage, leading to repeated sexual relations since school days and resulting in pregnancy.
July 2025: The Accused was arrested in Mysuru.
September 2025: Bail granted; DNA test confirms paternity.

The victim and supporters prefer marriage as a resolution, aligning with cultural norms in such cases.

However, refusal has shifted focus to legal proceedings under relevant sections for rape on the promise of marriage.

Key Insights

Political Accountability: The expulsion reflects internal party pressure to address scandals involving leaders’ families, especially in sensitive social issues.
Legal Challenges: Despite strong evidence, delays highlight common hurdles in promise-of-marriage cases, including settlement attempts and court processes.
Community Support: Organisations like Vishwakarma Mahamandala continue advocacy, amplifying voices from affected communities.

The case continues under Puttur police investigation, with expectations for progress in 2026.

Supporters urge expedited justice to support the young mother and child.