Is Uttarakhand's 'Operation Kalnemi' a Game Changer?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Operation Kalnemi aims to combat religious fraud.
- Over 100 impostors apprehended so far.
- Support from both ruling and opposition parties.
- Focus on protecting Sanatan Dharma.
- Legal actions against fraudsters are initiated.
New Delhi, July 14 (NationPress) Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami's initiative, 'Operation Kalnemi', aimed at tackling fraudulent spiritual gurus, is garnering significant acclaim from both government and opposition officials.
This operation seeks to expose and prosecute those who impersonate religious leaders to exploit individuals under the guise of spirituality. So far, it has resulted in the apprehension of over 100 impostors.
Designed to uphold the integrity of Sanatan Dharma and maintain the revered traditions of saints, Operation Kalnemi is being recognized as a vital measure to combat religious fraud.
On Sunday, CM Dhami warned individuals pretending to be saints for deceitful purposes. "We have arrested over 100 impostors under Operation Kalnemi. Those scheming and masquerading as 'sadhus' to tarnish the reputation of Sanatan Dharma will face severe consequences," he asserted.
BJP national spokesperson Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi commended the initiative, emphasizing the importance of monitoring religious deception.
"Any form of conversion based on monetary inducements, trickery, or threats is unacceptable. Whether it is fraudulently or forcibly done, such actions must be strictly monitored and addressed decisively," he stated to IANS.
BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal also lauded the Chief Minister for his efforts to protect the legacy of saints.
"I applaud Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami for this initiative. With rising awareness of Sanatan Dharma, numerous so-called saints have surfaced, exploiting the image of holy figures for personal gain. Operation Kalnemi will help preserve the integrity of the saintly tradition," he remarked.
BJP spokesperson Syed Shahnawaz Hussain also expressed his support for the operation.
In an interview with IANS, he said, "CM Dhami has launched an excellent campaign. Many impostors are currently deceiving people, claiming to perform miraculous acts and robbing innocent individuals. This policy will unveil such fraudsters."
Even leaders from the opposition voiced their support for the initiative, albeit with political nuances.
Shiv Sena (UBT) national spokesperson Anand Dubey acknowledged the effort but criticized the BJP.
"It’s commendable that Kalnemi are being apprehended, but CM Dhami should also address the Kalnemi within the BJP who are corrupt and undermining the party from within. I commend him for this initiative, but he needs to expose those sowing discord in society from his own party," he stated to IANS.
Samajwadi Party MLA Abu Azmi supported the crackdown.
"This operation is commendable. Strict measures must be enforced against those who deceive others under the pretense of being saints. Regardless of religion, anyone who exploits faith for criminal acts should be held accountable. I congratulate him on this initiative," he expressed.