Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh – A special court has acquitted mathematics teacher Vivek Johri of all charges in a Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act case. The acquittal came after the three students who accused him eight years ago admitted to filing a false complaint. Special Judge Debashish Pandey declared Johri innocent on Wednesday .
The Allegations and Arrest
The case dates back to April 2016 . Three students accused their teacher, Vivek Johri, of inappropriate behavior. This accusation followed Johri scolding them for using mobile phones in class. The incident occurred in a school located within Bareilly district.
Following these accusations, the students’ parents filed a formal complaint. A case was subsequently lodged under the POCSO Act. This occurred at the Baradari police station in Bareilly. Vivek Johri was arrested based on these charges. He was later imprisoned as the legal process began.
Students Admit Fabrication
During the trial proceedings, a crucial development unfolded. The three students testified before the court. They admitted their allegations against Johri were fabricated. They stated these claims were made in anger. The students explained they felt resentment after being reprimanded by Johri.
Advocate Harsh Kumar Agrawal represented Vivek Johri in court. Agrawal highlighted that police had filed a chargesheet. He noted this occurred despite what he viewed as insufficient evidence. The students expressed remorse for their actions. They offered an apology directly to the presiding judge.
Acquittal and Teacher’s Reaction
Special Judge Debashish Pandey rendered the verdict. He found Vivek Johri innocent of all charges. Additional District Government Counsel Rajeev Tiwari confirmed the acquittal. Tiwari stated the court’s decision was clear.
Following his release, Vivek Johri spoke briefly. He did not provide extensive comments on his ordeal. Johri stated he was relieved that "truth had prevailed." This marked the conclusion of an eight-year legal battle for the teacher.