Pune Police Launch Intensive Manhunt for Vasai Godman in Rape Case
The Pune city police have escalated their investigation into a disturbing case involving a Vasai-based spiritual figure, mobilizing four dedicated teams to track down the suspect. The godman, identified as Hrishikesh Vaidya, faces serious charges of rape and criminal intimidation following a formal complaint lodged by a 35-year-old woman from Pune.
Case Details and Jurisdictional Transfer
Initially, the Vasai Manikpur police station registered the case under Section 376 (rape) and Section 506 (criminal intimidation) of the Indian Penal Code after the victim approached them. However, since the alleged crime occurred within Pune's jurisdiction, specifically at a lodge in the Manjari area, the case was promptly transferred to the Manjari police station for further investigation.
Senior Inspector Hiralal Jadhav of Manikpur police station confirmed the procedural transfer, stating, "After the woman approached us, we registered the case and immediately transferred it to the Pune police for further investigation. A team from Pune visited our station to collect all necessary information."
Victim's Allegations and Suspect's Defense
According to the victim's complaint, she first connected with Vaidya through social media platforms. The godman allegedly traveled to Pune under the guise of performing religious rituals. During this visit, he is accused of taking the woman to a lodge in Manjari where he reportedly administered a sedative-laced drink before sexually assaulting her.
The situation escalated further when Vaidya allegedly began blackmailing the victim, threatening to share compromising photographs with her husband. This coercion reportedly forced her to travel to Vasai, where she claims she was assaulted again. In a social media post, Vaidya has denied all allegations, asserting that the case against him is fabricated and that the truth will eventually emerge.
Police Investigation Intensifies
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime) Nikhil Pingle revealed that the investigation has gained significant momentum. "We have received crucial inputs about his possible whereabouts," Pingle stated. "Based on this intelligence, we have deployed four specialized teams across multiple districts to locate and apprehend the suspect."
Pingle further elaborated on the suspect's modus operandi, explaining that Vaidya allegedly gained the victim's trust by presenting himself as an incarnation of Lord Mahadev. The police believe he exploited this spiritual authority to manipulate and victimize the complainant.
Political and Social Reactions
The case has attracted attention beyond law enforcement circles. Maharashtra Congress chief Harshwardhan Sapkal shared a photograph on social media suggesting that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had previously associated with the accused godman, though no official statements have confirmed any political connections.
Additionally, activists from the Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmoolan Samiti (MANS) visited the Manjari police station to formally request application of the Maharashtra Prevention and Eradication of Human Sacrifice and Other Inhuman, Evil and Aghori Practices and Black Magic Act, 2013. This legislation specifically targets exploitative practices under the guise of spirituality and religious rituals.
Broader Implications and Ongoing Search
This case highlights the ongoing challenges authorities face in dealing with spiritual fraud and exploitation. The Pune police's formation of four dedicated teams underscores the seriousness with which they're treating these allegations. As the manhunt continues across multiple districts, authorities remain focused on bringing the accused to justice while ensuring proper support for the victim.
The investigation continues to develop as police follow multiple leads and coordinate across jurisdictions. The case serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities that can be exploited by those misusing spiritual authority and the importance of robust legal frameworks to address such crimes.
