Self-Styled ‘Godman’ Arrested in Maharashtra for Alleged Abuse of Children Under the Guise of Rituals

A self-proclaimed spiritual leader has been arrested in Akola, Maharashtra, after allegedly subjecting children to inhumane and dangerous practices in the name of divine powers and healing rituals. The arrest followed the circulation of disturbing videos on social media, which triggered widespread public outrage and prompted swift police action.

The accused, identified as Chetan Sunil Mule, had been operating a so-called “spiritual court” in Nimb village under Murtijapur taluk. He claimed to possess supernatural abilities and promised to cure ailments, attracting followers driven by faith and superstition.

However, visuals that surfaced online painted a deeply troubling picture. The videos showed the accused engaging in bizarre and hazardous acts involving children. These included pulling them by their clothes, attempting to lift them using his teeth, and placing them on his nails—actions that raised serious concerns about the safety and well-being of the minors involved. Shockingly, those present reportedly viewed these acts as miraculous displays rather than abusive behaviour.

As the footage spread rapidly across platforms such as Instagram, public anger intensified, leading to demands for accountability and action against such exploitative practices.

Following the registration of a case, the accused initially fled. Acting on directives from senior officials, a special police team was formed to trace him. Using technical surveillance and intelligence inputs, the police located him in Amravati, where he had gone into hiding. He was subsequently apprehended through a planned operation.

After his arrest, Mule was produced before the Murtijapur court and remanded to one day of police custody. Investigators are now examining whether others were involved in the operation and whether a larger network exists behind such activities.

Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and avoid falling prey to fraudulent individuals exploiting religious beliefs. Citizens have also been encouraged to report any suspicious or harmful practices to law enforcement without delay.

The incident has once again brought attention to the dangers of blind faith and the urgent need for greater awareness and enforcement against exploitative practices carried out under the guise of spirituality.