What is Operation Kalnemi? Over 300 fake ‘babas’ nabbed in Uttarakhand

Haldwani, July 15 (NationPress) In a significant operation aimed at dismantling fraudsters who exploit religious beliefs, the Uttarakhand Police undertook a major initiative on Tuesday, apprehending over 300 fake babas as part of Operation Kalnemi throughout the Kumaon division.

The operation, initiated under the guidance of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, seeks to eliminate deceitful spiritual leaders who mislead the community in the name of faith.

In a statement to IANS, Inspector General (IG) Kumaon Riddhim Agarwal confirmed that the operation spanned all six districts of the Kumaon area, successfully identifying more than 300 individuals masquerading as saints, babas, or spiritual advisors. Legal proceedings have been initiated via FIRs, challans, and preventive detentions.

“These individuals were taking advantage of people's faith through superstition, deceit, and false assertions of divine abilities,” Agarwal stated to IANS.

“They possessed no legitimate identification or documentation to validate their claims. During the operation, suspected individuals were detained, their backgrounds were scrutinized, and appropriate legal measures were enforced.”

Agarwal further emphasized that all police stations and outposts in Kumaon have been directed to stay alert and persist in the crackdown against dubious figures posing as spiritual leaders.

The campaign draws inspiration from the mythological character Kalnemi, a demon who disguised himself as a saint to mislead others. In reference to this allegory, CM Pushkar Singh Dhami launched Operation Kalnemi on July 10, deeming it a crucial step to safeguard the reputation of Sanatan Dharma.

“Just as the demon Kalnemi used a disguise to deceive, many such ‘Kalnemis’ exist in today’s society, misusing religion for criminal activities,” CM Dhami remarked during the launch.

“This initiative aims to protect people’s faith and ensure that only genuine spiritual leaders guide our communities.”

This action coincides with a period of heightened religious activity in Uttarakhand, as ongoing pilgrimages draw large crowds to sacred sites like Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Kedarnath. The government is focused on maintaining the safety and sanctity of these gatherings.

The campaign has garnered widespread support from various political factions.

BJP national spokesperson Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi commended the initiative, underscoring the necessity of eliminating religious exploitation.

“Conversion through money, deception, or coercion must be closely monitored and curtailed,” he asserted.

BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal echoed this sentiment, stating, “As awareness of Sanatan Dharma grows, many fake babas are attempting to exploit it. I applaud CM Dhami for safeguarding the integrity of our spiritual traditions.”

BJP leader Syed Shahnawaz Hussain also expressed his endorsement.

“Many imposters are deceiving innocent believers with false promises and ‘miracles’. This operation will help expose them,” he commented.

Interestingly, even opposition parties have shown support for the initiative, though with some critical remarks.

Shiv Sena (UBT) spokesperson Anand Dubey welcomed the crackdown but urged the CM to introspect.

“While catching fake babas is commendable, CM Dhami must also identify the ‘Kalnemis’ within his own party who are corrupt and causing social disharmony,” he noted.