Dehradun (Uttarakhand) [India], July 12 (ANI): Acting on Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami’s directive, Uttarakhand Police have launched Operation Kalanemi to crack down on impostors exploiting people’s religious sentiments under the guise of sainthood. On Saturday, Dehradun Police arrested 23 individuals posing as saints and sadhus for allegedly cheating unsuspecting devotees in the name of religion.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ajay Singh told ANI the operation targeted individuals who prey on the faith of locals and Kanwariyas, particularly misleading women and youth with false promises of resolving their personal and domestic problems. Of those arrested, 10 are residents of other states.
“Under this campaign, police conducted coordinated checks in several areas and arrested 23 fake babas roaming as saints. All station in-charges have been instructed to continue identifying such impostors and take strict action against them,” SSP Singh said.
The campaign has been welcomed by prominent Hindu religious bodies and leaders. Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad President Ravindra Puri praised the initiative, saying it protects devotees, particularly Kanwariyas, from harassment and extortion by fraudulent individuals.
“We thank the Chief Minister for this bold step. These fake saints harass Kanwariyas, demand money, and even abuse those who refuse. Such elements tarnish the name of true saints, and strict action is needed,” Puri told ANI.
Similarly, the president of Akhand Parshuram Akhada called for verification of Aadhaar cards to weed out impostors, adding, “India aspires to be Vishwaguru, and for that, only genuine saints must represent Sanatan Dharma. Criminals in disguise must face the law.”
State BJP President Mahendra Bhatt also endorsed the crackdown, saying, “Certain criminal elements disturb the social harmony. The government will not tolerate those who disrupt society in the name of religion. Everyone must abide by the law.”
According to police, Operation Kalanemi will continue as part of the state’s effort to safeguard devotees and maintain the sanctity of Uttarakhand as Devbhoomi.
(ANI)
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