Dehradun: Operation Kalanemi, a statewide crackdown on fraudulent religious figures, has gained momentum in Uttarakhand with over 200 fake babas arrested so far. Apart from this, 111 fake Babas have been arrested by Dehradun police only.
The campaign, launched five days ago on the orders of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, aims to protect the sanctity of Uttarakhand, revered as Devbhoomi, by identifying and prosecuting imposters who exploit public faith under the guise of saints and spiritual leaders.
Police arrested 29 individuals across various districts on the fourth day
On the fourth day of the campaign, police arrested 29 individuals across various districts, including 20 from outside states. In Vikasnagar, one Abdul Rehman was caught duping people in the name of prayers. In Sahaspur, a crowd had gathered around a self-styled Chaudi Baba promising long life blessings. When police arrived, the baba attempted to flee but was apprehended and jailed.
A Bangladeshi was also arrested
One notable arrest was that of Rukn Rakam alias Shah Alam, a Bangladeshi citizen detained in Sahaspur under the Foreigners Act. The Ministry of External Affairs has verified his nationality, and preparations are underway to deport him back to Bangladesh.
Dehradun SSP, Ajay Singh confirmed that all police stations have been instructed to conduct thorough investigations, especially during the Kanwar Yatra when the influx of pilgrims and spiritual figures increases. Verification drives are being carried out to ensure that no criminal elements are hiding among the crowds.
Police have verified the identities of 600 babas in Badrinath
The campaign has now reached Badrinath Dham, where police have verified the identities of 600 babas. Two individuals from Bengal were found suspicious, and their documents are currently under scrutiny. Badrinath police station in-charge Navneet Bhandari stated that new arrivals are being called to the station for verification to maintain the sanctity of the pilgrimage site.
Operation Kalanemi is trending on social media platforms like Twitter
Operation Kalanemi has sparked widespread public interest and support, trending on social media platforms like Twitter. Thousands of users praised CM Dhami’s decisive action, calling him a “sentinel of Sanatan Dharma” and a “protector of faith.” Many users from other states have urged their governments to launch similar campaigns to safeguard religious spaces from exploitation.
This campaign refers to a mythological demon Kalanemi
The campaign’s name draws inspiration from the mythological demon Kalanemi, who disguised himself as a sage to mislead Hanuman during his quest for the Sanjeevani herb. In today’s context, Operation Kalanemi seeks to expose those who wear religious garb to deceive and defraud innocent people.
Arrested individuals were involved in manipulating women and youth by offering fake rituals
Police officials have revealed that many of the arrested individuals were involved in manipulating women and youth by offering fake rituals, astrology services, and spiritual remedies. Some even claimed to reverse marital issues or cure diseases through supernatural means. These activities not only mislead the public but also tarnish the reputation of genuine spiritual practitioners.
The campaign is being personally monitored by SSP Ajay Singh, with district-level officers instructed to intensify checks at religious sites, ashrams, and public gatherings. The government has also appealed to citizens to report suspicious behavior and avoid falling prey to false promises.
