India, May 25 -- On Saturday, authorities in Karnataka's Belagavi announced the arrest of Hathayogi Lokeshwar Swami, a 30-year-old head of Ram Mandir Math in Mekali village, Raibag taluk, following allegations of kidnapping and repeatedly raping a 17-year-old girl.

The arrest took place on Thursday after the minor lodged a complaint detailing the horrific ordeal that began on May 13. According to the police, the victim was brought to the Math by her family, who had been advised by relatives that the swami could heal her illness and resolve her troubles through spiritual means. In her statement, the girl revealed that on May 13, while she was returning home from a relative's place, the accused offered her a ride, only to abduct her instea...