Nepalese 'Buddha Boy' Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Child Sexual Abuse

In a recent development in Nepal, a court has sentenced a spiritual leader known as the "Buddha Boy" to 10 years in prison for child sexual abuse. Ram Bahadur Bomjan, who some believe to be a reincarnation of Buddha, gained fame for his alleged ability to meditate without food, water, or sleep. The 33-year-old guru was convicted of child sexual abuse in Nepal's Sarlahi town and also fined 500,000 Nepali rupees. Bomjan, who has a dedicated following, has faced accusations of physical and sexual assault against his followers for years. Bomjan was apprehended by Nepal's Central Investigation Bureau in January in Kathmandu, where he was found with a significant amount of cash in local and foreign currencies. The spiritual leader has been accused of multiple assaults, including the rape of an 18-year-old nun in 2018. Despite these allegations, Bomjan still had a large following, with thousands gathering to witness his meditation practices in the jungle. His popularity has waned over the years due to the mounting accusations against him. The court's decision to sentence Bomjan to a decade in prison and impose a fine comes after years of allegations and complaints against him. While some view him as a reincarnation of Buddha, Buddhist scholars have expressed skepticism about his claims. The spiritual leader's arrest and subsequent conviction shed light on the darker side of his persona, tarnishing his once revered image among his followers. The charges related to the disappearances of his devotees are still awaiting trial, underscoring the ongoing legal challenges facing Bomjan.