📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Photo Dharma from Sadao, Thailand
Crime
Satna: Police Probe Alleged Priest for Embezzling Offerings at Chitrakoot Godavari Caves
✍️ Amar Ujala · Madhya Pradesh
🗓 22 Sep 2026, 11:31 AM
👁 7
A video showing alleged priest Pawan Das allegedly misappropriating donation money from illegal puja at the secret Godavari caves in Chitrakoot, Satna, has prompted a police investigation.
Satna district officials said that a man identified as Pawan Das, also known as Pawan Patel, is accused of conducting unauthorised religious ceremonies at the hidden Godavari caves in Chitrakoot and pocketing the money offered by devotees.
The allegation gained public attention after a video surfaced online, allegedly showing the priest collecting cash contributions meant for the rituals and then transporting the funds away from the site.
Following the viral clip, the local police launched a formal inquiry, registering a case of theft and illegal religious activity. Investigators have seized the video as evidence and are seeking statements from witnesses present at the cave during the alleged incident.
As of now, no formal charges have been filed, and the priest has not been taken into custody. The police have indicated that the probe will continue to determine the extent of the alleged misappropriation and to identify any accomplices.
The allegation gained public attention after a video surfaced online, allegedly showing the priest collecting cash contributions meant for the rituals and then transporting the funds away from the site.
Following the viral clip, the local police launched a formal inquiry, registering a case of theft and illegal religious activity. Investigators have seized the video as evidence and are seeking statements from witnesses present at the cave during the alleged incident.
As of now, no formal charges have been filed, and the priest has not been taken into custody. The police have indicated that the probe will continue to determine the extent of the alleged misappropriation and to identify any accomplices.