A self-proclaimed spiritual leader, known as “Bhondu Baba” in Nashik, Maharashtra, has been accused of raping a 28-year-old woman under the guise of spiritual healing. The woman reportedly sought help for mental distress and was taken to the godman by her family due to ongoing family issues and her mental health condition. The accused, identified as Maheshgiri Baba, whose legal name is Mahesh Dilip Kakde, has been charged under Maharashtra’s anti-witchcraft legislation following the woman’s allegations.

The survivor, employed as a security guard at a private hospital, was promised treatment for her alleged spirit possession. According to the woman’s complaint, the godman advised her to attend weekly prayers held every Thursday. Over time, he began communicating with her through personal and inappropriate messages on her mobile phone.

In an alleged incident in August 2024, the godman reportedly invited her to a secluded location and drove her to a lodge. When the woman resisted his advances, he purportedly threatened her using rudraksha beads, saying, “I have divine powers, you will be unable to resist anything,” before assaulting her. Allegations also include that he took nude photographs of her during this encounter.

Escalation of Threats

The complaint further details how the situation deteriorated after the survivor confided in her relatives. The accused allegedly intensified his threats, claiming he could harm her due to his connections. He reportedly called her to his office, referred to himself as a “goon,” and warned her against involving the police. It is claimed he also seized her phone to delete evidence related to the abuse.

After a period of silence, driven by fear of repercussions, the woman sought help from the anti-superstition organisation Andhashraddha Nirmulan Samiti. Following their assistance, a formal complaint was submitted to the Maharashtra Police, who have since launched an investigation.

The Nashik region has recently experienced a surge in serious allegations against self-styled godmen, notably the case of astrologer Ashok Kharat, who was arrested in March 2024 for allegedly sexually assaulting a woman for years under the pretext of spiritual guidance.

Separate Case Against Akola Godman for Child Abuse

In a related development in Akola, Maharashtra, another self-styled godman, Chetan Sunil Mule, also known as “Gulal Shesh Maharaj,” has faced serious allegations of child cruelty. Videos circulating on social media reportedly depict Mule engaging in dangerous practices, such as lifting children with his teeth and making them sit on nail-studded surfaces while claiming to provide treatment for various ailments.

The accused has allegedly conducted these rituals for nearly a decade, asserting his ability to cure illnesses, resolve family disputes, and eliminate obstacles for his followers. The case attracted attention after a member of the Child Welfare Committee, Pranjali Manoj Jaiswal, discovered a viral video showing the alleged abuse. Upon verification, a complaint was filed, leading to action at the Murtijapur Rural Police Station.

Law enforcement officials have charged the accused under multiple sections, including Section 125 of the Indian Penal Code and Section 75 of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, which addresses cruelty towards children. Additionally, Section 3 of the Maharashtra Anti-Superstition Act, 2013, has been invoked, highlighting the serious threats posed to child safety.

In response to these incidents, authorities have initiated a crackdown on similar practices in the region. Notices have been issued to several self-styled godmen operating in Murtijapur taluka, with warnings of strict legal action for any future infractions. Police officials have made it clear that such exploitative practices will not be tolerated.

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