Maharashtra ‘Godman’ On The Run After Beating Followers, Forcing Them To Drink Urine
A self-styled godman from Maharashtra’s Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district is on the run after shocking videos surfaced showing him beating followers, forcing them to drink urine, and subjecting people to various forms of humiliation in the name of exorcism rituals. Local authorities and anti-superstition activists have filed a police case and intensified efforts to apprehend him.
The incidents came to light on July 17, when a video circulated on social media showed the accused, identified as Sanjay Ranganath Pagar, performing violent ‘rituals’ at a village gathering. The recording captures Pagar pouring coloured liquid over a young man, beating a drum while chanting “Alakh Niranjan”, and then striking the victim’s nose with a shoe. At one point, Pagar is seen placing his shoe in the man’s mouth and pressing his foot against the man’s neck while repeatedly threatening him with a stick.
According to the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Anti-Superstition Committee, Pagar is also accused of forcing his followers to consume urine, beatings with sticks, and other acts of public humiliation under the guise of ‘spirit removal’. Several women have alleged inappropriate touching by the so-called godman during his rituals.
Upon being alerted, members of the anti-superstition committee rushed to the village, confronted Pagar, and notified the local police station. However, by the time authorities arrived, Pagar had fled the area along with a group of loyal followers. Police teams have since been deployed across the district, and a manhunt is underway.
“Strict action will be taken against anyone who spreads superstitious or inhumane practices in the name of religion,” a senior district police official said. “We have registered a case and are tracking the accused’s movements. No one indulging in such illegal activities will be spared.”
The video has sparked widespread outrage on social media, with many demanding tougher enforcement of the state’s anti-superstition law. Several netizens and local citizens have expressed shock, calling for better awareness and protection for vulnerable villagers frequently targeted by such self-proclaimed spiritual leaders.
Maharashtra, one of the few Indian states with a dedicated Anti-Superstition and Black Magic Act, has made multiple arrests in the past following similar incidents involving exploitation by so-called godmen. Activists have urged district administrations to step up both enforcement and education to prevent such abuses.
Authorities are appealing to the public for information on Pagar’s whereabouts and have warned that abetting such acts will invite strict legal consequences.
