KATHMANDU: Nepalese police on Wednesday arrested a spiritual leader known as the “Buddha Boy,” whom followers believe to be a reincarnation of Buddha. The arrest is in connection with allegations of disappearances and rape at his ashrams.
Ram Bahadur Bomjan gained fame in his teenage years when devotees claimed he could engage in motionless meditation for months without the need for water, food, or sleep. Despite having a devoted following, the 33-year-old guru has faced longstanding accusations of physical and sexual assault against his followers, leading him to evade authorities for several years.
Buddha Boy was on Run for Years
“He was arrested after absconding for several years,” stated police spokesman Kuber Kadayat to AFP.
Bomjan was arrested in Kathmandu based on a warrant issued for his alleged rape of a minor at an ashram in Sarlahi, a district south of the capital.
During the arrest, police discovered bundles of cash totaling 30 million Nepali rupees ($225,000) and an additional $22,500 in foreign currency in his possession.
Allegations of abuse and misconduct against Bomjan date back over a decade, prompting authorities to take action against the spiritual leader.
