Pune police have registered a case under the Anti-Superstition and Black Magic Act against Pastor Gopal Randive and Sister Asha Randive for allegedly promoting superstitious and occult practices during a religious program.
The complaint was filed by Vaibhav Vitthal Bhikole, a 26-year-old resident of Gujarat Colony, Kothrud.
The event in question was held under the name "Bandhmukt Seva Karya Prabhu Bhojan," where the accused claimed that ailments could be healed using "Blessing Oil," prayers, and dance.
According to the complaint, the victim had been facing financial and mental distress when he attended one of their sessions.
During another program held on Sunday evening at Gosavi Vasti in Karvenagar, Sister Asha Randive reportedly shared testimonies of participants, asserting that illnesses were cured by applying "Blessing Oil."
She narrated an instance of a child suffering from a severe skin disease, claiming the disease disappeared entirely due to the oil and prayers.
The accused also encouraged attendees who had not been baptized to undergo the ceremony, explaining that it involved immersion in holy water and a declaration of faith in Jesus Christ.
Police allege that the accused promoted superstitious practices and made statements with the intent to hurt the religious sentiments of others.
A case has been registered at the Alankar Police Station under the guidance of Assistant Police Inspector Mahesh Lamkhede, and investigations are underway.
