A 29-year-old IIT Roorkee graduate, Abhishek Mishra, who allegedly posed as a spiritual guru under the name “Adikarta Narayan Das”, has been arrested in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, on rape and blackmail charges following a complaint by a 22-year-old nursing student from Chhattisgarh.
Police allege that he used social media, spiritual discourses and personal counselling to gain the trust of women, sexually exploit them and then use photographs and videos to blackmail them and their families. Investigators say digital evidence recovered during the probe is being examined to determine whether more victims were involved. While police have outlined serious allegations, the case remains under investigation and the accused is entitled to a fair trial.
From IIT Graduate To Spiritual Influencer
What began as a complaint from a young woman has developed into a case that has sparked concern about the misuse of religious influence and social media. Abhishek Mishra, originally from Odisha and a Mechanical Engineering graduate from IIT Roorkee, allegedly abandoned a conventional career path and settled in Mathura’s Radha Kund area, where he reinvented himself as a spiritual preacher.
Using the name “Adikarta Narayan Das”, he reportedly built a following through religious sermons, motivational talks and online content. Investigators believe his academic credentials and carefully crafted spiritual image helped him gain the trust of followers from different parts of the country, particularly young people seeking guidance and emotional support.
Social Media And The Growth Of His Following
According to police, social media played a central role in expanding Mishra’s influence. Through online spiritual discourses and digital engagement, he connected with followers beyond Mathura and developed close relationships with some of them.
Investigators allege that certain women were encouraged to move closer to his community and gradually distance themselves from family members and existing support networks. Authorities are examining whether this formed part of a broader pattern of psychological influence and control. Reports suggest that several young men and women were associated with his circle at different points.
The Complaint That Led To His Arrest
The investigation began after a 22-year-old BSc Nursing student from Chhattisgarh filed a complaint on May 25. According to the FIR, she alleged that Mishra offered her milk presented as religious prasad, after which she lost consciousness. She accused him of sexually assaulting her and recording photographs and videos without her consent.
The complainant further alleged that the images and videos were later used to threaten and blackmail her. Based on her statement, police registered a rape case and launched an investigation that eventually led to the accused’s arrest in Mathura. Authorities say the survivor’s complaint remains central to the case, but investigators are now examining whether other women may have faced similar experiences.
Alleged Use Of Religious Concepts And Blackmail
One aspect of the investigation that has drawn attention is the alleged use of the concept of “Gandharva Vivah”. Police claim the accused used references to this traditional form of marriage to persuade some women followers into intimate relationships by presenting them as spiritually or religiously valid. Investigators are reviewing statements and evidence to understand the nature of these relationships and whether religious authority was used to influence personal decisions.
Digital evidence is also expected to play a crucial role. Police say electronic devices recovered during the investigation allegedly contained photographs, videos and other materials that may help establish the sequence of events and identify additional victims. Authorities claim intimate images were used as a means of intimidation, making victims fearful of social stigma, family repercussions and public exposure.
Rescue Operation And Ongoing Probe
During a police operation at the accused’s residence in Mathura, officers reportedly found two women and one man living at the premises. Authorities later reunited them with their families and recorded their statements as part of the investigation. Police are now examining the wider network surrounding the accused, including his online activities and interactions with followers from multiple states. Investigators are assessing whether social media platforms were used to recruit or maintain influence over members of his circle.
The case has also renewed debate about the growing influence of self-styled spiritual figures who build large followings online without institutional oversight. Experts have often warned that social media can enable charismatic individuals to gain significant authority over followers, making transparency and accountability increasingly important. Police officials have stated that the investigation remains active and that additional evidence is being analysed. Authorities are working to determine whether more victims may come forward and whether further charges could be added based on digital forensic findings and witness testimonies.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This case serves as a reminder that education, social standing or spiritual influence should never shield anyone from accountability. The allegations underscore how trust, faith and emotional vulnerability can be exploited when authority operates without transparency or checks. While the accused has the right to due process and a fair trial, the claims emerging from the investigation highlight the need for stronger awareness, support systems and safe avenues for survivors to seek help.
The incident also raises broader questions about digital influence and the responsibilities that come with positions of trust. As more people turn to online personalities for guidance and support, how can society better protect vulnerable individuals from manipulation while preserving the positive role that faith and spirituality can play in people’s lives?
Also Read: Dehradun Horror: Woman Allegedly Locked In Toilet For 10 Months, Separated From Newborn Twins And Subjected To Brutal Abuse
IIT Roorkee grad posing as sadhu held in Mathura for drugging, blackmailing women
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Mathura police arrest IIT Roorkee grad Abhishek Mishra posing as sadhu for allegedly drugging, sexually assaulting and blackmailing educated women.https://t.co/f2rzRC3ild pic.twitter.com/8KJNAFMhgk
