Controversial Ascetic “Buddha Boy” Ram Bahadur Bamjan Arrested

In a significant turn of events, the controversial ascetic Ram Bahadur Bamjan, popularly known as “Buddha Boy,” was apprehended in Budhanilkantha, Kathmandu on Tuesday. The arrest comes after Bamjan had been evading the authorities since 2020, accused of grave charges including rape and the disappearance of his followers.

Bamjan, a self-proclaimed spiritual leader who gained fame for his supposed meditation feats, was taken into custody by the Central Investigation Bureau of Nepal Police based on a tip-off. According to Deputy Inspector General Kuber Kadayat, the arrest was not without drama, as Bamjan attempted to escape by jumping off the roof of the house where he was hiding.

The accusations against Bamjan are severe, with an 18-year-old nun accusing him of rape and several of his followers allegedly disappearing under mysterious circumstances. Despite multiple attempts, the police had failed to apprehend him until now.

“He has been on the run for quite some time, and we finally managed to track him down in Budhanilkantha,” stated DIG Kuber Kadayat during a press conference. “He tried to evade arrest by resorting to dangerous tactics, but our officers acted swiftly to apprehend him.”

Police sources reveal that Bamjan had been residing in Kathmandu for over two months. Upon searching the residence where he was found, authorities reportedly seized a substantial amount of money, totaling over Rs 30 million.

The spiritual leader is expected to face charges related to the disappearance of followers, including Sanchalal Waiba, Phul Maya Rumba, and Karma Waiba, who were reported missing from his Ashrams in various districts. Additionally, allegations of sexual assault on female disciples within his Ashram have added to the gravity of the case.

Authorities are preparing to take Bamjan to the Sarlahi District Court, where he will be formally charged and face legal proceedings. The arrest marks the culmination of a four-year search for Bamjan, whose influence and mysterious practices had raised concerns among both followers and critics alike.

The case has garnered widespread attention, shedding light on the dark side of spiritual leaders who exploit their positions of authority. The upcoming legal proceedings are expected to provide further insights into the allegations against Ram Bahadur Bamjan and address the concerns surrounding his activities.