Self-styled Baba detained over rape allegation in Dhenkanal; probe on

A case of alleged sexual assault emerged from Kamakhyanagar in Dhenkanal district on Friday, where a woman working at an ashram-run eatery accused a spiritual leader of rape and misconduct. Police have detained the accused and begun an investigation.

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According to police sources, in the disturbing development from Kamakhyanagar, a self-styled spiritual leader (Baba) has been detained by local police following a serious allegation of rape and inappropriate conduct with a woman associated with his ashram.

The victim woman, who worked as a cook/helper in the ashram’s eatery (Bhojanalaya), filed a formal complaint alleging that the Baba sexually assaulted her one night while she was sleeping inside the ashram premises. She also claimed the accused engaged in inappropriate and immoral behaviour leading up to the incident.

Acting on the woman’s FIR, Kamakhyanagar Police took the accused man into custody for questioning. A probe is underway, and the ashram's role, if any, is also being investigated.

So far, no official statement has been made by either the police or the accused.

The case has sparked outrage among local residents, who are demanding a thorough probe and strict action if the allegations are proven true. Authorities have assured that the due legal process will be followed.

“One night at around 10.00 to 10.30 PM, he (accused Baba) came to my room. I had fallen asleep while watching (videos) my mobile phone. He closed the room door from inside and misbehaved with me. When he touched my legs, I opposed. He continued to touch my private parts and forcibly engaged in a physical relationship,” the woman stated.