Ram Bahadur Bomjon acquitted and freed from Nepal prison

KATHMANDU– Spiritual leader Ram Bahadur Bomjon, often called the “Buddha Boy,” has been released from prison after Nepal’s Janakpur High Court overturned his 10-year sentence. The court ruled that there was **not enough evidence  to support the allegations against him, leading to his acquittal.

Rise to Fame
Bomjon first captured the world’s attention in 2005, when villagers in Nepal claimed he was meditating in the jungle for months **without food or water. His apparent endurance led some to believe he was a reincarnation of  Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. Over time, his followers grew in number, and he became known for delivering  spiritual teachings to those seeking guidance.

However, his rise was not without controversy. Some skeptics doubted his extraordinary meditation abilities, while others criticized reports of strict discipline within his following. Despite the criticisms, Bomjon remained a well-known figure in Nepal and beyond.

Legal Trouble and Arrest
In  2023 authorities arrested Bomjon after allegations surfaced that he had sexually assaulted a minor. A lower court in Sarlahi District found him guilty and sentenced him to 10 years in prison, His followers protested, arguing that he was being **targeted unfairly.

Bomjon’s legal team appealed the decision, arguing that the evidence was weak and inconsistent. After months of review, the Janakpur High Court agreed, deciding that witness testimonies were contradictory and lacked credibility. On March 20, 2025, the court officially acquitted Bomjon, leading to his immediate **release** from prison.

Public Reaction and Future Plans
After leaving prison, Bomjon gave a short statement, thanking his supporters for standing by him and reaffirming his commitment to spiritual work. Some of his followers celebrated his return, believing his release was proof of his  nnocence. Others, including critics, remained skeptical, stating that the original accusations should not be ignored.

It is unclear what Bomjon’s future role will be. Some expect him to resume his teachings while others believe the controversy surrounding him maychange his influencein Nepal’s spiritual community.