Operation Kalanemi: 34 More Fake Sadhus Arrested In Dehradun

Dehradun Police Arrest 34 More in Crackdown on Fake Saints Under ‘Operation Kalanemi’

Dehradun, Uttarakhand – In a significant move to curb the exploitation of religious faith, the Dehradun police arrested 34 individuals posing as saints and sadhus on Sunday, July 13, 2025, as part of the ongoing ‘Operation Kalanemi’. This operation, launched by the Uttarakhand government, targets those who allegedly misuse religious sentiments for personal gain, according to a report by the Press Trust of India (PTI). With these latest arrests, the total number of detentions has reached 82 over the past three days, signaling a robust crackdown on fraudulent spiritual figures in the region.

The arrests are part of a broader initiative to address the growing concern over individuals who exploit the trust of devotees for monetary or other illicit benefits. These self-styled saints and sadhus, often seen in saffron robes and claiming spiritual authority, have been reported to engage in activities ranging from financial scams to other criminal endeavors. ‘Operation Kalanemi’, named after a mythological demon known for deception, aims to identify and detain such imposters to protect the sanctity of religious practices and safeguard the public.

According to police officials cited by PTI, the operation involves meticulous verification of the credentials of individuals claiming to be religious figures. On Sunday, the 34 arrests were made following tip-offs and surveillance across various parts of Dehradun, a city known for its spiritual significance and as a gateway to several pilgrimage sites in Uttarakhand. The detained individuals are being investigated for their backgrounds, sources of income, and any prior criminal records. Authorities have indicated that many of those arrested lack legitimate ties to recognized religious institutions and may have fabricated their identities to deceive followers.

The Uttarakhand government’s initiative has garnered significant attention, given the state’s prominence as a hub for spiritual tourism. Cities like Dehradun, Haridwar, and Rishikesh attract millions of devotees annually, making them prime targets for those looking to exploit religious sentiments. The police have intensified efforts to verify the authenticity of wandering ascetics and self-proclaimed spiritual leaders, particularly in areas frequented by pilgrims and tourists.

Officials have assured the public that ‘Operation Kalanemi’ is not intended to target genuine religious practitioners but to weed out those who tarnish the image of spirituality. The operation includes coordination between local police, intelligence units, and community leaders to ensure that only those engaging in fraudulent activities are apprehended. The authorities are also urging the public to report suspicious individuals posing as religious figures to aid in the crackdown.

The recent arrests have sparked discussions about the need for stricter regulations to monitor individuals claiming religious authority. Community leaders and genuine spiritual organizations have welcomed the initiative, emphasizing the importance of preserving the sanctity of religious practices. As investigations continue, the Uttarakhand government has vowed to maintain vigilance and ensure that ‘Operation Kalanemi’ serves as a deterrent to those exploiting faith for personal gain.

This crackdown underscores the state’s commitment to protecting its cultural and spiritual heritage while addressing the challenges posed by fraudulent elements in society.