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Haridwar: Haridwar police have arrested two Bangladeshi nationals from Kaliyar for illegally staying in India and posing as Hindu devotees, as part of a special crackdown under Operation Kalanemi.
The arrests were made during identity verification at the annual Urs of Sabir Pak, a large religious gathering that draws thousands of people.
Two men were living in Kaliyar under false Hindu names
The two men had been living in Kaliyar under false Hindu names and were actively participating in religious activities to avoid suspicion. Police officials said they had blended in with the local crowd and had been staying in the area for an extended period.
During the Urs, security was heightened and police teams were deployed to verify the identities of attendees. It was during this process that the two Bangladeshi citizens were caught with fake documents and forged identities.
These individuals had entered India illegally
Upon investigation, it was confirmed that both individuals were Bangladeshi nationals who had entered India illegally. They were booked under the Foreigners Act and presented in court. After legal proceedings, both were sent to judicial custody.
A targeted initiative by Uttarakhand Police to identify fake godmen
Operation Kalanemi is a targeted initiative by Uttarakhand Police to identify fake godmen, illegal immigrants, and imposters misusing religious platforms. The name is inspired by the mythological demon Kalanemi, who disguised himself to deceive others. The operation aims to protect religious sanctity and public safety.
Uttarakhand police arrested over 300 individuals under the fake identity
Under operation Kaalnemi, Uttarakhand police have arrested over 300 fake babas who were deceiving the people under the pretext of black magic and tantra mantra. Apart from the two Bangladeshi nationals, police also identified several other imposters during the Urs. These individuals were found to be living in the area without valid documents and were challaned for violating legal norms.
Such misuse of religious spaces is alarming
Local residents expressed concern over the incident, saying that such misuse of religious spaces is alarming. “We come here to pray and seek blessings. It’s disturbing to know that people are hiding behind faith for illegal activities,” said a devotee attending the Urs.
Police have now increased surveillance in Kaliyar and nearby areas. Intelligence agencies are also involved in tracking other suspicious individuals who may be living under false identities. Officials have urged citizens to report any unusual activity or unknown persons in their locality.
These arrests raised concerns about border security
The arrests have raised broader concerns about border security and illegal immigration. Authorities are reviewing security arrangements for future religious events and plan to introduce digital identity verification systems to prevent such incidents. As Operation Kalanemi continues, Uttarakhand Police remain focused on ensuring that religious gatherings are safe, respectful, and free from imposters who misuse faith for personal or unlawful gain.
