In a dramatic turn of events, Haridwar police have arrested Deepak Saini, a 40-year-old resident of Subhash Nagar, Jwalapur, accused of raping a minor girl. Saini had been evading arrest by dressing as Lord Shiva and posing as a spiritual guru called “Kalanemi Baba,” fooling devotees while hiding from authorities. His capture came during Uttarakhand Police’s statewide crackdown, Operation Kalanemi, aimed at exposing fake godmen and religious impostors.
The operation, launched on the orders of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, was triggered by intelligence reports warning of fraudsters exploiting the heavy influx of pilgrims during the Kanwar Yatra and Char Dham season. So far, over 100 fake sadhus have been arrested under this drive, which seeks to protect the public and preserve the sanctity of religious spaces.
Police say Saini, wanted under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, lured the minor with promises of blessings and wish fulfillment. Disguised in “Neelkanth” attire and symbolic accessories of Lord Shiva, he would offer prasad and claim divine powers to gain trust. Officers became suspicious after observing his behavior and took him into custody, where he confessed to using the disguise to target women and minors.
Investigators revealed he has a long criminal record, including domestic violence, harassment, and breach of peace cases in both Haridwar and Saharanpur. He was also active on social media, using his fake spiritual persona to expand his reach. Authorities are now probing whether more victims were trapped by his deception.
Police have urged the public to be cautious around self-proclaimed godmen or anyone offering miraculous solutions in religious settings. Saini remains in custody as the investigation continues, with officials vowing strict action against those who exploit faith for criminal purposes.
