State PCS - Uttarakhand (UKPSC)

• 19 Aug 2025

Operation Kalnemi

Uttarakhand’s "Operation Kalnemi," aimed at cracking down on fake sadhus deceiving the public, has been strengthened with new directives from the state government.  

• Now, those caught impersonating religious figures will face arrests through criminal charges, not just detention. The move comes after several incidents of fraudulent activities disguised as religious acts. 

Key Points 

• Enhanced Legal Action: Under the new guidelines, the police are instructed to file cases against imposters under relevant laws, such as the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954, the BNS Act 2023 (for fake identity cards), the Information Technology Act, 2000 (for cyber fraud and fake social media profiles), and the Foreigners Act, 1946 (for foreign nationals residing on fake documents). 
• Awareness Campaign: To prevent people from falling prey to fraudulent religious figures, the government has launched a public awareness campaign, including social media outreach.  
  • The goal is to educate citizens about the dangers of fake sadhus and the associated crimes. 
• Background: Uttarakhand’s Chief Minister launched Operation Kalnemi ahead of the Kanwar Yatra to combat fake sadhus exploiting religious identity.  
  • Inspired by the demon Kalnemi from Hindu mythology, the operation aims to protect Sanatan Dharma and uphold social harmony.