MANS Introduces Helpline to Combat Astrology Fraud in Maharashtra
In a significant move to address exploitation under the guise of spiritual practices, the Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmoolan Samiti (MANS) has established three dedicated helpline numbers. This initiative aims to provide support to victims of individuals like Nashik-based astrologer Ashok Kharat, who was recently arrested on charges of exploiting women and cheating his followers.
Meeting with Police Authorities and Helpline Activation
A delegation from MANS recently met with the Director-General of Police (DGP) Sadanand Date following the exposure of the Kharat case. During this meeting, members urged the DGP to ensure an impartial investigation into the allegations against Kharat and to implement proactive measures to prevent similar crimes in the future.
Subsequent to this discussion, MANS launched the helpline numbers and made a statewide appeal for victims to come forward. Nandini Jadhav, a state executive committee member of MANS, reported to TOI that the response has been immediate and substantial. "Soon after the helpline numbers were activated, we started getting calls from various districts of the state. Within three days, we have received close to 50 calls," Jadhav stated.
Victim Experiences and Organizational Support
Callers to the helpline have shared distressing accounts of exploitation by various individuals who used rituals as a pretext for fraudulent activities. Jadhav emphasized that MANS is actively assisting the police in identifying other conmen and is encouraging the public to report such cases through the helpline.
"Our organization is helping the police in exposing such conmen. Therefore, we are appealing to people to approach us through the helpline. We will help the genuine callers in drafting complaint applications as per legal requirements. Those applications will be submitted to the DGP's office for necessary action," Jadhav explained.
Challenges with Police Response and Calls for Sensitivity
Despite these efforts, Jadhav expressed concerns about the police's responsiveness in cases involving fraudsters like Kharat. She noted that many police personnel lack awareness of the provisions under the act against black magic, which has hindered the filing of complaints in numerous instances.
"Many police personnel are not aware of the provisions of the act against black magic. In many cases, our members have struggled in helping complainants in filing cases. We have requested the DGP to sensitise the police department to be more sensitive and proactive in reacting to such cases, where victims are traumatised," Jadhav added, highlighting the need for improved training and awareness within law enforcement agencies.
