Sambalpur: A self-proclaimed godman was arrested for allegedly raping a tribal woman on the pretext of treating her with traditional medicine at Rairakhol in Odisha’s Sambalpur district.
The accused, identified as Prafulla Mahala, was a resident of Bhalaipadar village under the jurisdiction of Manamunda police station in Boudh district.
Police sources said Mahala claimed himself to be a spiritual leader for the last several years and was living in an ashram at Baishnabjholi in Rairakhol. When the woman approached him for some health issues, he allegedly gave some intoxicants and then raped her.
The woman managed to escape, but her condition deteriorated and she was admitted to Rairakhol hospital. She later lodged a complaint with the police. Based on her complaint, the police conducted an investigation and nabbed the accused.
However, Mahala reportedly refuted the allegation of raping or giving any medication to the woman.
Meanwhile, police said investigation is underway and the accused is in custody for interrogation.
