crime news: Bhubaneswar, (Reporterspen), Dec 7: A self-proclaimed godman, Prafulla Mahala, was arrested in Rairakhol, located in Odisha’s Sambalpur district, for allegedly raping a tribal woman under the guise of treating her with traditional medicine.
Mahala, a resident of Bhalaipadar village within the Manamunda police jurisdiction in Boudh district, had been living in an ashram at Baishnabjholi for several years, claiming to be a spiritual leader.
According to police sources, the woman sought Mahala’s help for health issues. During her visit, he allegedly administered intoxicants, which incapacitated her and led to the assault. After managing to escape, the woman’s health deteriorated, prompting her to seek medical attention at Rairakhol hospital. Following her recovery, she filed a complaint with the police detailing the incident.
Subsequently, law enforcement officials launched an investigation that resulted in Mahala’s arrest. He has denied all allegations, asserting that he neither assaulted the woman nor administered any medication. The police are continuing their investigation, and the accused remains in custody for further questioning as they seek to uncover more details surrounding the case.
