A major legal development has emerged in the case of viral Kumbh Mela figure Monalisa Bhosle, after the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) confirmed she was a minor at the time of her marriage to Farman Khan.
Following the findings, a case has been registered against Khan under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act.
NCST Probe Reveals Age Discrepancy
The commission’s investigation found that Monalisa belonged to the Pardi tribal community and was underage when she got married in March 2026. According to medical records from a government hospital in Maheshwar, Madhya Pradesh, her date of birth is December 30, 2009.
This places her at approximately 16 years old at the time of marriage. The probe also noted that an earlier birth certificate issued by the Maheshwar Municipal Council—listing her birth date as January 1, 2008—was incorrect. Authorities have been directed to cancel the disputed document.
FIR Registered Under POCSO and Other Laws
An FIR has been filed at Maheshwar Police Station in Khargone district under multiple legal provisions, including the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.
Officials confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, and further legal action may follow based on findings.
Commission Seeks Accountability
The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes has taken serious note of the case and summoned senior police officials from both Madhya Pradesh and Kerala to appear before it on April 22 in New Delhi.
The commission has also directed state authorities to submit a progress report within three days and stated it will closely monitor the case until due legal action is completed.
Background of the Marriage
Monalisa Bhosle had married Farman Khan at a temple in Kerala earlier this year. At the time, the couple claimed she was an adult, reportedly presenting identity documents as proof.
The case had already drawn public attention due to allegations and counter-allegations, including claims related to forced marriage and social pressure.
Uncertainty Over Marriage Validity
With the latest findings confirming that Monalisa was a minor at the time of marriage, the legal status of the union now remains uncertain. Authorities are expected to determine the next steps as the investigation progresses.
