A 45-year-old cricket coach in Varanasi has been arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting two minor trainees, police officials confirmed on Sunday. The accused, identified as Murarilal, was taken into custody shortly after the families of the boys lodged complaints at the Bhelupur police station. The case has been filed under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and other relevant legal provisions, ensuring a stringent investigation into the allegations.

According to Bhelupur Additional Commissioner of Police Gaurav Kumar, the victims—aged 14 and 15—had been training regularly under the coach. One of the boys was allegedly assaulted in Lucknow after the accused took him there on the pretext of undergoing medical tests for Under-14 team selection. Police report that the other boy was assaulted repeatedly over a three-day period, further deepening concerns about the coach’s conduct and access to minors.

The incident came to light when one of the boys fell ill and was admitted to a private hospital. During medical examination, he reportedly disclosed the abuse to health officials, who immediately alerted law enforcement. The rapid escalation of the case prompted authorities to act swiftly, leading to the coach's arrest within hours of the formal complaint. Officials stressed that the children’s safety and confidentiality are being prioritised as the investigation continues.

Also Read: BJP MLA Hans Raj Booked Under POCSO Act for Alleged Sexual Assault on Minor

DCP Crime Sarvan T stated that the case reflects a serious breach of trust, especially given the influential role coaches often play in the lives of young athletes. He also noted that during preliminary interrogation, the accused admitted to certain actions, which helped investigators piece together the timeline of events. The authorities are now verifying statements, gathering forensic evidence, and ensuring that both minors receive appropriate counselling and protection.

Police further revealed that this is not the first time the coach has faced such accusations. Murarilal was previously arrested in 2021 by the Lanka Police for similar offences involving minors, where he allegedly exploited students by promising to help them secure admission to a Central school. The recurrence of accusations has raised questions about how he continued to operate as a coach, prompting calls for stricter screening and monitoring in youth sports environments.

Officials stated that the ongoing investigation will focus not only on the current allegations but also on identifying whether additional victims may have been involved. Authorities have urged parents, students, and sports academies to come forward with any information relevant to the case. Meanwhile, the accused has been remanded to judicial custody as the police prepare to file a detailed charge sheet under the POCSO Act.

Also Read: Adiala Jail Refutes Imran Khan Death Rumors After Sisters' Brutal Assault