‘Kumbh Viral Girl’ Monalisa Found To Be Minor, POCSO Case Filed Against Husband

Monalisa, popularly known as the “Kumbh viral girl,” has landed in controversy after an official investigation found that she is a minor, prompting legal action against her husband.

Police in Madhya Pradesh’s Khargone district have registered a case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act against her husband, Farman. Additional charges have been filed under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) related to criminal conspiracy and unlawful marriage, along with sections of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.

According to authorities, hospital records confirmed Monalisa’s date of birth as December 30, 2009, making her 16 years old at the time of her marriage on March 11.

Monalisa had gained widespread attention during the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, where she was seen selling rudraksh garlands. A video of her went viral on social media, quickly turning her into an internet sensation.

The investigation revealed that the marriage ceremony took place at a temple in Kerala, where officials relied on Aadhaar details provided by the couple. However, a birth certificate used for registration, reportedly issued by a municipal authority, was later found to be forged, showing an earlier birth date.

Authorities have initiated steps to cancel the fake document and are examining the broader circumstances surrounding the marriage.

The case has also drawn attention from the National Commission for Scheduled Tribe, which has sought regular updates from police authorities in both Madhya Pradesh and Kerala. Senior officials from both states have been asked to report on the progress of the investigation.

Further allegations have surfaced regarding the possible involvement of certain individuals and organisations in facilitating the marriage, which are currently under scrutiny as part of the ongoing probe.