The Interpol Red Notice stems from allegations dating back to 2015-2016, when Edamaruku was accused of defrauding Prameela Devi, a government employee from Kerala, of ₹15 lakh. Devi alleged that Edamaruku promised to secure a Finnish visa, employment, and permanent residency for her in exchange for the sum. Following these claims, the Alappuzha North Police registered a case against him in 2018 for cheating and breach of trust. Subsequently, the Chief Judicial Magistrate Court in Alappuzha issued an arrest warrant, leading to the involvement of Interpol and the issuance of the Red Notice in 2020.
Edamaruku has refuted these allegations, suggesting that the charges are part of a concerted effort to target him due to his work in debunking religious miracles and superstitions in India. In 2012, he investigated a phenomenon at Mumbai's Church of Our Lady of Velankanni, where water was seen dripping from a crucifix. Edamaruku concluded that the source was faulty plumbing rather than a miraculous occurrence. This assertion led to blasphemy charges under Section 295 of the Indian Penal Code, prompting him to seek refuge in Finland to avoid arrest.
The recent detention in Poland has raised concerns among human rights organizations and free speech advocates. They argue that the charges against Edamaruku are politically motivated, aiming to suppress his efforts in promoting scientific temper and rationalism. Supporters are calling for Polish authorities to release him and for Interpol to re-evaluate the legitimacy of the Red Notice.
As of now, there has been no official statement from Polish authorities regarding Edamaruku's detention. The Indian government has also remained silent on the matter. Legal experts suggest that extradition proceedings could be complex, given the nature of the charges and the potential implications for freedom of expression.
Edamaruku's case highlights the ongoing tension between religious sentiments and the right to free inquiry in India. His supporters emphasize the importance of protecting individuals who challenge unverified claims, especially those that can influence public perception and policy. They argue that scientific scrutiny should not be met with legal persecution, as it plays a crucial role in societal progress.