Nashik Rape Case: Fake Godman Maheshgiri Accused of Forcibly Deleting Evidence from Survivor’s Phone

A shocking case of sexual exploitation has surfaced in Nashik district, adding to the ongoing controversy surrounding self-styled godmen. A complaint was registered at Lasalgaon Police Station on Thursday against a fake spiritual healer from Dharangaon (Khurd) in Niphad taluka. The accused, identified as Maheshgiri alias Mahesh Dilip Kakade (31), has been booked for rape along with charges under anti-superstition laws. According to the complaint filed by a 28-year-old woman, the accused allegedly took advantage of her emotional vulnerability caused by domestic stress, failed marriages, and mental distress.

In her statement, the survivor said she had been struggling mentally after two unsuccessful marriages and separation from her daughter. Taking advantage of her condition, her parents brought her to a so-called religious monastery in Dharangaon, falsely claimed to be similar to a revered spiritual site. The accused projected himself as a man possessing divine powers and claimed he could rid women of evil spirits. On August 15, 2024, when she visited the monastery with her parents, Kakade told her she was under the influence of black magic and instructed her to visit the place every five Thursdays for rituals.

The complaint further states that Kakade obtained her mobile number and began sending her frequent personal and obscene messages. He allegedly expressed romantic interest and discouraged her from remarrying, suggesting instead that she stay with him at his Pune-based monastery. On August 23, 2024, he called her to meet in the Panchavati area of Nashik and later took her to a lodge on Trimbakeshwar Road. There, he allegedly threatened her by claiming divine powers and forced her into a sexual relationship. He is also accused of taking explicit photographs of her and using them to intimidate her.

Also Read: Nashik: Self-Styled Godman Maheshgiri Booked for Alleged Rape Under Anti-Superstition Law in Lasalgaon

The survivor reportedly suffered severe mental trauma due to the abuse. Fear of social stigma, family pressure, and the accused’s influence prevented her from approaching the police earlier. It was also alleged that the accused forcibly deleted evidence from her mobile phone. The woman later got married but remained silent, fearing that the accused’s alleged connections with influential people would deny her justice. She had earlier approached Adgaon Police Station, but her complaint was reportedly not registered due to jurisdiction issues.

After receiving support and encouragement from activists of the Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmoolan Samiti, the woman finally gathered courage and approached Lasalgaon Police Station. Under the guidance of state general secretary Dr. T.R. Gorane, members Krishna Chandgude, Komal Varde, and advocate Swati Telgote, she narrated her ordeal to the police. Assistant Police Inspector Deepak Patil verified the case and, following instructions from senior officials, registered an FIR under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and the Maharashtra Anti-Superstition and Black Magic Act, 2013. Activists suspect that the accused may have similarly exploited other women.