A 50-year-old astrologer was arrested in Kalaburagi for allegedly duping a serving Bengaluru police constable out of more than ₹5 lakh, promising to cure her ailments through occult practices. The victim, a 33-year-old woman constable residing in the Adugodi police quarters from December 2023 to 2024, remains unnamed due to privacy concerns as she recovers from both her health problems and the emotional trauma of the incident.
The accused, Hemanth Bhat Janardhan, reportedly comes from a family renowned for astrological practices spanning three generations. He was apprehended after repeated delays in cooperating with police despite initially agreeing to return the money. DCP (Southeast) Sarah Fathima confirmed the arrest and encouraged others who may have been misled by Janardhan to come forward.
According to the FIR, the constable suffered from digestive issues and swelling in her limbs. A friend introduced her to Janardhan after spotting his televised advertisement. He claimed that 15 spirits were causing her condition and warned of dire consequences without immediate spiritual intervention. She transferred ₹4.2 lakh online and handed ₹1 lakh in cash.
In September 2024, Janardhan conducted a “healing ritual” at a Koramangala hotel — involving lemons, incense, chants, hair-pulling, and a peacock-feather broom. He also charged ₹65,000 each from two of her friends for similar ceremonies. When no recovery followed, the constable demanded her money back, but Janardhan stopped responding.
He is now out on bail, and discussions are underway regarding a financial settlement.
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