Charges Framed in 2018 Rape Case Against Self-Styled Godman Daati Maharaj

The Saket District Court has framed charges against self-styled Godman Daati Maharaj and two others in a 2018 rape case. The trial is set to begin on October 18. Initially investigated by Delhi Police, the case was later transferred to the CBI.

The Saket District Court on Friday framed charges against self-styled godman Madan Rajasthani, also known as Daati Maharaj, in connection with a 2018 rape case. Two additional accused have also been charged.

The charges stem from a complaint filed by one of Maharaj's disciples. Special Fast Track Court Judge Neha framed charges against Maharaj and his brothers, Ashok and Arjun, while discharging a fourth accused, identified as Anil. Maharaj and the other accused have denied the charges and claimed trial.

The court scheduled the trial to begin on October 18 with the recording of prosecution evidence. Initially, the case was registered at the Fatehpur Beri police station but was later handed over to the crime branch of Delhi police before being transferred to the CBI on order of the Delhi High Court.

Both the Delhi Police and the CBI have filed charge sheets in the case. The complaint, originally filed in 2018, alleges that the victim was raped in 2016 and was repeatedly assaulted at Gurukul Ashwasan in Bal Gram, Rajasthan. The victim delayed filing her complaint due to intimidation by the godman.

(With inputs from agencies.)