Outrage Erupts Over Disturbing Videos of Minors in Unsafe Rituals in Akola
Shocking visuals have emerged from the Akola district, revealing minors being subjected to unsafe and inhuman practices under the guise of treatment, triggering widespread public outrage and condemnation.
Viral Footage Exposes Dangerous Practices by Self-Proclaimed Godman
The viral videos, which have circulated extensively on social media platforms, allegedly depict a self-styled godman from Nimbha village in Murtizapur taluka engaging in alarming rituals. The footage shows Chetan Sunil Mule, also known as "Gulal Shesh Maharaj," lifting children with his teeth and performing superstition-driven ceremonies that pose significant risks to their physical and psychological well-being.
According to local residents who have witnessed these gatherings over time, Mule has been conducting such events, referred to as ‘darbars,’ for nearly a decade. He claims these rituals can cure various illnesses and resolve personal and family problems, exploiting the vulnerabilities of those seeking help.
Community Backlash and Calls for Immediate Action
The release of these videos has drawn sharp reactions from the community, with many residents expressing anger and demanding strict legal action against the accused. When media teams visited Nimbha village to investigate further, several locals spoke out against the practices, describing them as dangerous, misleading, and a threat to public safety.
Members of Mule's family, when approached for comments, declined to provide any statements, noting that he was not present at home during the time of the inquiry. This lack of cooperation has only intensified concerns about accountability and transparency in addressing the issue.
Authorities Alarmed by Prevalence of Similar Activities
Law enforcement officials have expressed serious alarm over reports indicating that Nimbha—a small village with a population of barely 1,000 people—hosts at least four such ‘darbars’ operated by different self-proclaimed godmen. This highlights a broader pattern of exploitative practices in certain rural areas, where blind faith and superstition can overshadow rational thinking and child protection measures.
Sharad Wankhade, an office-bearer of the Akola unit of the Andhashraddha Nirmoolan Samiti, emphasized the urgent need for immediate and decisive action. He stressed that such activities must be curbed to safeguard vulnerable sections of society, particularly children who are often unable to protect themselves from harm.
Police Response and Ongoing Investigation
Taking cognizance of the matter, SDPO Vaishali Mule confirmed that all self-styled godmen in the area have been summoned for questioning as part of a comprehensive investigation. The authorities are working to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and assess the full extent of these practices to ensure appropriate legal measures are taken.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the persistent challenges posed by blind faith in certain rural pockets, where traditional beliefs can sometimes lead to harmful and illegal activities. It underscores the importance of community awareness, education, and robust law enforcement to protect minors and promote safer environments for all.
