11-07-2025
What Is Operation Kalnemi? Hindu Leaders Back Uttarakhand's Crackdown On Fake Sadhus
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The name 'Operation Kalnemi' is inspired by the demon Kalnemi from Hindu mythology, who took on the appearance of a saint to mislead people
Religious leaders and seers in Ayodhya have extended support to Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami's recently launched 'Operation Kalnemi', which is aimed at identifying and taking action against fake sadhus who exploit religion for personal gain.
Hindu Rashtra Sena president Prabodhanand Giri welcomed the move, calling it timely and necessary. He urged the Uttarakhand government to continue the campaign until the Kumbh Mela and take strict action against imposters found misusing the identity of sadhus.
However, he suggested that the operation should officially begin 15 days later, as a large portion of the police force is currently focused on ensuring the safety of Kanwariyas, devotees of Lord Shiva participating in the ongoing Kanwar Yatra.
Prabodhanand Giri proposed a clear method for identifying genuine sadhus. He recommended that authorities should ask individuals claiming to be sadhus for the name of their guru, their Akhara (monastic order), and any proof linking them to an established religious lineage.
He also raised concern over so-called 'jihadists" disguising themselves in saffron robes to deceive and rob people, stating that Operation Kalnemi is essential to protect Uttarakhand and its religious heritage.
Sanjay Das, successor to Gyan Das Maharaj and president of the Sankat Mochan Sena, also supported the move but cautioned that such sensitive actions must be carried out in coordination with the Akharas.
In a post on X, Dhami explained that there have been several reports of imposters pretending to be sadhus and deceiving people, especially women, in the name of Sanatan Dharma. These actions, he said, not only mislead the public but also damage the image of Hindu traditions and social harmony.
'This not only hurts the religious sentiments of people but also tarnishes the image of social harmony and Sanatan tradition. Strict action will be taken against such elements, regardless of their religion," Dhami wrote.
The name 'Operation Kalnemi' is inspired by the demon Kalnemi from Hindu mythology, who took on the appearance of a saint to mislead people. Dhami said such modern-day 'Kalnemis" will face strict legal action, regardless of their religion.
The Chief Minister said the government is determined to protect religious sentiments, ensure public safety, and uphold the dignity of Sanatan culture.
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