Maharashtra Police Arrests 'Sword Baba' for Exploiting Villagers
Arrest of 'Sword Baba' in Maharashtra
In Maharashtra, following the exposure of fraudulent practices by self-styled guru Ashok Kharat, police have uncovered another case involving a similar con artist. The incident took place in the village of Badur, located in the Biloali tehsil, where a man identifying himself as 'Sword Baba', Gyaneshwar Karde, was apprehended. He allegedly intimidated locals with a naked sword and exploited them financially and mentally under the pretense of curing ailments.
Investigations revealed that Gyaneshwar had been operating his so-called spiritual sessions for the past four years. He claimed to possess divine powers that allowed him to cure serious illnesses like cancer, resolve family disputes, and eliminate evil forces. During his sessions, he wielded a sword to instill fear among women and children, ensuring they remained submissive.
Deception with Lemons and Rituals
Not only did he intimidate, but he also ensnared gullible villagers using lemons and other occult rituals. In exchange for solutions, he extorted large sums of money and valuable items from them. Following numerous complaints from the community, a police team led by Sub-Divisional Police Officer Shyam Panegavkar and Inspector Atul Bhosale set up a sting operation.
Police Action and Arrests
During the raid, various materials related to superstition and black magic were seized. Supporters of the Baba attempted to obstruct the police during the operation, leading to confrontations. The police have filed charges against the main accused and his associates, Shivkant Melare and Nabaji Waghekar, under the Maharashtra Anti-Superstition Act.
Commendation from Anti-Superstition Committee
Members of the Maharashtra Anti-Superstition Committee (ANIS), including Kamalakar Jamdade, praised the police action. They emphasized the need for strict measures against such fraudulent individuals who exploit society through fear. Inspector Atul Bhosale urged the public to remain vigilant against superstitions and report any instances of fraud to the authorities.