A self-proclaimed godman was arrested in Latur district, Maharashtra, for allegedly raping a 17-year-old girl under the guise of performing a spiritual ritual meant to remedy a supposed flaw in her birth chart. The accused, identified as Rameshwar Ramdasi Maharaj, reportedly convinced the girl’s parents that significant astrological issues necessitated intervention through a special puja.

The incident unfolded when the teenager’s parents sought Ramdasi’s services to prepare her kundali. During the consultation, he informed them that their daughter’s birth chart had a defect that could only be rectified by conducting a specific ritual. Under the belief that they were acting for their daughter’s well-being, her parents agreed to the puja that he proposed.

Allegations of Manipulation

On the day of the ritual, Ramdasi instructed the girl’s parents to leave the room, claiming that their presence was unnecessary while he recited prayers. Once alone with the minor, he allegedly communicated that the flaw in her natal chart could only be eradicated through a physical relationship. This manipulation allegedly allowed him to coerce the young girl into submitting to his demands.

Reports indicate that he threatened the victim by stating that revealing the incident would result in the flaw remaining unaddressed forever, effectively silencing her. The psychological manipulation heightened the severity of the situation, impacting the victim profoundly.

Eventually, the teenager became aware of her pregnancy, prompting her to confide in her parents about the abuse. Following her disclosure, her family sought help from local law enforcement.

Legal Proceedings and Arrest

In response to the teenager’s allegations, her parents lodged a formal complaint with the police. Authorities acted swiftly, registering a case against Ramdasi under various legal frameworks, including the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and the Maharashtra Anti-Superstition and Black Magic Act, alongside several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

Subsequently, Ramdasi was apprehended by the police and presented before a local court. The court has ordered a four-day police custody period for the accused, allowing further investigation into the case. The community remains alert as the legal proceedings develop in response to this grave incident.

This case highlights ongoing concerns regarding the exploitation of faith and belief systems, particularly in vulnerable communities, and has drawn attention to the need for continuous awareness and protective measures for young individuals.

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