Vrindavan Preacher Indradev Maharaj Accused of Sexual Abuse
A Pune woman filed a Zero FIR alleging sexual assault and digital exploitation by the preacher.
1Formal Charges Filed
A woman from Pune has officially accused Vrindavan-based preacher Indradev Maharaj of sexual assault and intimidation. The Kashimira police station in Mira-Bhayandar registered a Zero FIR, which is a legal mechanism allowing a complaint to be filed at any police station before being transferred to the jurisdiction where the crime allegedly occurred.
2Allegations of Abuse
The complainant alleges that during her stay at the Sevadham Ashram in 2023, the preacher summoned her to his room at night and forced himself upon her. She claims he instructed her to lie about her whereabouts if questioned, claiming she was merely fetching medicine to maintain secrecy during her stay.
3Digital Exploitation Claims
Beyond the physical assault, the woman alleges that Indradev Maharaj coerced her into undressing during video calls. She claims he performed obscene acts while recording the sessions, using these recordings and the threat of public humiliation to maintain control over her, reportedly telling her, 'I am God, and you must obey.'
4Spiritual Connection Origins
The victim initially encountered the preacher through his social media discourses in 2023. She later attended a satsang in Santacruz, Mumbai, to receive spiritual initiation. Trust was reportedly established when the preacher promised to resolve her personal problems, eventually leading her to visit his ashram in Vrindavan for further spiritual guidance.
5Activist Intervention
After facing months of inaction regarding her complaints in Mathura, the woman sought help from activist Trupti Desai. Desai, who leads the Bhumata Brigade, organized a press conference in Pune to highlight the case. This intervention was instrumental in finally getting the Zero FIR registered against the preacher by the local authorities.
6Broader Pattern of Accusations
During the press conference held by Trupti Desai, several other women came forward with similar allegations against Indradev Maharaj. While only one FIR has been officially registered so far, these additional testimonies suggest a potential pattern of exploitation, prompting calls for a thorough investigation into the preacher's conduct at his ashram.
7Demands for Justice
Trupti Desai has publicly demanded the immediate arrest of Indradev Maharaj and a comprehensive investigation into all claims. She urged other potential victims to come forward without fear, emphasizing that those who exploit the faith of women must be held accountable within the legal system to ensure justice is finally served.
8Current Legal Status
As of now, Indradev Maharaj has not issued a public response to the serious allegations leveled against him. The case now moves toward the Mathura police, who are expected to take over the investigation from the Maharashtra authorities to determine the validity of the claims and decide on the next legal steps.
Original article: NDTV – Top Stories — Vrindavan Preacher Indradev Maharaj Accused of Sexual Abuse