Sources: 
Kerala police have launched an intensified manhunt for Unni Damodaran, the chief priest of Peringottukara temple, who has absconded following serious allegations.
Arun, another priest from the same temple, was arrested in Bengaluru on charges of attempting to rape a woman and blackmailing her with a nude video. The victim alleges that Arun contacted her, claiming she was "affected by black magic" and insisted on performing a pooja to remove it, coercing her to comply.
According to the complaint, Arun and Unni Damodaran forcibly took the woman in a car to a forest under the pretense of a religious ritual, where they attempted unnatural sexual acts. This has sparked a police investigation and a search operation for the absconding chief priest.
"You are affected by black magic. I will perform a pooja to remove it. You must do as I say," Arun reportedly told the victim.
The case highlights the misuse of religious authority to exploit and threaten victims, prompting law enforcement to act swiftly. The police continue to track down Unni Damodaran to bring him to justice.
This incident has raised concerns about safeguarding vulnerable individuals from abuse under the guise of spiritual practices.
Sources: Kerala police intensify search for chief priest Unni Damodaran, who absconded following the arrest of priest Arun from Peringottukara temple. Arun faces charges of attempted rape and blackmail involving a Bengaluru woman, with both accused allegedly using religious rituals to coerce the victim.
