Pune: In the wake of growing scrutiny over cases involving self-styled spiritualmen in Maharashtra, police have arrested another accused in connection with an alleged case of sexual assault involving drugging and coercion.
The accused, identified as Hrishikesh Vaidya, was apprehended in the Pimpri area after reportedly evading arrest for some time. The case came to light following a complaint filed by a 35-year-old woman, who alleged that she was deceived and later sexually assaulted by the accused.
According to police, the complainant first came into contact with Vaidya in 2023 through social media. During their interactions, he allegedly presented himself as a devout religious figure and gradually gained her trust by offering spiritual guidance and teachings.
Investigators said that after establishing trust, the accused persuaded the woman to meet him at a lodge in Pune’s Manjari area. It is alleged that he administered an intoxicating substance to her and subsequently sexually assaulted her.
Following the incident, the woman reportedly discovered discrepancies in the accused’s identity and decided to approach the authorities. She initially filed a complaint at Manikpur Police Station in Vasai, which was later transferred to Hadapsar Police Station in Pune for further investigation.
After the case was registered, the accused went into hiding and is believed to have frequently changed locations to evade arrest. Acting on intelligence inputs that he was in the Pimpri area, a joint operation by local police and the crime branch led to his capture.
Police officials confirmed that Vaidya, who is reportedly from Palghar district and is said to be associated with a social organisation, is currently being interrogated. Authorities are also examining whether other women may have been targeted using a similar modus operandi.
The complainant further alleged that the accused had taken photographs during the incident and used them to blackmail her.
Meanwhile, the accused has denied all allegations in a social media post, claiming that the case filed against him is false.
The investigation remains ongoing.
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