25 Fake Sadhus Arrested in Dehradun, Including Bangladeshi Posing as Astrologer

Crackdown on Religious Fraud as Authorities Tighten Security Ahead of Kanwar Yatra

Dehradun, Uttarakhand | July 12, 2025: In a major security sweep, 25 imposters posing as sadhus were arrested in Dehradun, Uttarakhand—including a Bangladeshi national who had been masquerading as an astrologer. The arrests come just days ahead of the annual Kanwar Yatra, a high-security pilgrimage drawing millions of devotees.

Bangladeshi Infiltrator Caught Disguised as Astrologer

The Bangladeshi citizen was reportedly staying illegally in India, using a fake identity to offer “astrological services” in and around Dehradun. Authorities say he had no legal documentation and was misleading locals under the guise of spiritual guidance.

Preliminary investigation reveals that the arrested men had set up makeshift camps and were collecting donations, reading palms, and performing fake rituals to dupe unsuspecting pilgrims and residents.

Police: “Zero Tolerance for Fraud in the Name of Faith”

Senior police officials confirmed the arrests and emphasized that strict verification drives are underway to ensure that anti-social elements do not exploit religious events for personal or political gain.

“We’re not against any religion. We are acting against impersonators exploiting people’s faith and trust,” said a senior Dehradun police official.

The arrests have sparked concern over border security, illegal immigration, and the growing nexus between superstition and organized fraud under the garb of spirituality.