Astrologer Ashok Kharat: 2 Credit Societies, 132 Accounts, Rs 63 Crore Transactions: How Nashik 'Godman' Built His Fortunes NASHIK: Self-styled godman Ashok Kharat, who is facing rape charges, allegedly opened more than 130 accounts in two cooperative credit societies in Maharashtra using different names and carried out transactions worth nearly Rs 63 crore over the past few years, a police official said. According to news agency PTI, one of the accounts was opened in the name of the sister of former Maharashtra State Women’s Commission chairperson Rupali Chakankar, who resigned last month after her alleged links with Kharat surfaced following his arrest in Nashik. The details came to light during an ongoing probe by police in Ahilyanagar district in connection with a cheating case registered against Kharat, his wife Kalpana, and three others. The case pertains to the Kharat couple, residents of Nashik district, who allegedly attempted to grab four acres of land in Shirdi after extending a loan of Rs 5.52 crore to the owner. Shirdi police have arrested two middlemen in the case and are searching for Kalpana and another accused. To prevent her from leaving the country, a Lookout Notice has been issued against Kalpana, Ahilyanagar Superintendent of Police Somnath Gharge said. Immigration officials at designated airports, seaports, and land borders have been alerted in connection with the case. During the investigation into the cheating case registered in Shirdi, police found that Kharat had opened more than 130 accounts in two cooperative credit societies in Ahilyanagar district in the names of different individuals. Superintendent of Police Somnath Gharge said these accounts recorded heavy transaction volumes over the past few years.#enforcement_directorate #shirdi #ashok_kharat #rupali_chakankar #somnath_gharge
Ashok Kharat case: Godman impregnated victim, gave her abortion pills, say police A self-styled "godman" named Ashok Kharat has been remanded in police custody in a rape case, following allegations that he sexually exploited a woman between February 2020 and March 2026. The prosecution claims he impregnated the victim, administered abortion pills, and coerced her relatives to surrender their Aadhaar and PAN cards. The case has drawn significant attention due to the alleged use of black magic and the legal arguments surrounding consent and evidence. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigating the case reported that Kharat has not cooperated with the probe. During a court hearing, the investigating officer stated that Kharat raped the woman and impregnated her, then gave her abortion medication. The officer emphasized that Kharat is the "mastermind" behind the alleged crimes and has refused to assist the police. The prosecution argued that the victim was subjected to repeated sexual exploitation over nearly six years, with threats to her children used as psychological coercion. When she became pregnant, Kharat allegedly provided abortion pills and forced her family members, including her brother and mother, to hand over their identification documents. The prosecution further alleged that Kharat administered sedatives to the victim and used a consistent method of exploitation across all his victims. They requested that Kharat be held in police custody for seven days to determine which medicines were given to the victim and to investigate why he took documents from her family. Throughout the hearing, Kharat remained silent, facing the camera with clasped hands and refusing to comment.#court #ashok_kharat #special_investigation_team #black_magic_act #victim
‘Epstein-like end feared’: Congress claims ‘pen drive bombshell’ in Nashik astrologer Ashok Kharat's case Amid widespread public outrage over the rape-accused astrologer Ashok Kharat case in Maharashtra, a heated political clash erupted on Sunday between Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar and Maharashtra revenue minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule. Wadettiwar raised concerns that Kharat’s life could be endangered while in custody, drawing parallels to the 2024 Badlapur case in which a rape accused was killed during a police encounter. He warned that similar attempts to silence Kharat could occur to suppress evidence, citing past instances where individuals linked to powerful figures were allegedly protected. Wadettiwar also invoked the case of disgraced US financier Jeffrey Epstein, who died under mysterious circumstances in jail while facing sex trafficking charges, to underscore his fears that Kharat’s case could end in a similar fashion. Wadettiwar’s remarks followed claims by former minister Deepak Kesarkar that 39 state legislators had visited Kharat, prompting the Congress leader to demand action against those allegedly involved. He called for the names of individuals who supported or promoted Kharat, encouraged blind faith in him, or treated him as a deity to be publicly disclosed and booked under anti-superstition laws. He further alleged that a pen drive linked to the case contained information that could expose influential figures and trigger a “political earthquake” in Maharashtra. “If all that is on that pen drive is revealed, the Maharashtra government will land in serious trouble,” Wadettiwar said, warning that the contents could lead to the exposure of high-profile individuals tied to Kharat’s activities.#maharashtra #jeffrey_epstein #vijay_wadettiwar #ashok_kharat #chandrashekhar_bawankule
A court in Nashik granted an extension of police custody for Ashok Kharat, a self-styled godman accused of rape, until April 1. The order came after the court heard arguments from both the prosecution and defense in a case involving multiple allegations against Kharat, who was arrested on March 18 following a rape accusation. Kharat, who led a temple trust in Mirgaon, Nashik district, had been visited by several prominent Maharashtra politicians over the years. The arrest followed claims by a woman that he raped her repeatedly over three years. Authorities have registered ten FIRs against him, including eight for alleged sexual assault or exploitation and two for cheating, all filed at Sarkarwada police station. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the case reported receiving over 100 complaints, predominantly from women, in recent days. During a court hearing on Sunday, public prosecutor Shailendra Bagde stated that the investigation is ongoing and Kharat has not cooperated with authorities. The SIT is still examining his properties, the so-called "water" used to seduce victims, and digital evidence, including mobile phone data and contact lists. The prosecutor highlighted that a clone report of Kharat’s mobile data has been obtained, and investigators are checking whether he stored political leaders’ names under false identities. Bagde also noted that the inquiry into potential accomplices and the collection of further digital evidence require extended custody. The SIT submitted Kharat’s laptops, mobile phone, and documents to the court, with officer Kirankumar Suryavanshi detailing the investigation’s progress and requesting custody extension. Defense lawyer Sachin Bhate challenged the necessity of prolonged custody, arguing the probe had concluded. In contrast, lawyer M.Y.#nashik #ashok_kharat #special_investigation_team #mirgaon #shailendra_bagde
Ashok Kharat (Maha Deva) Scam Update: Legal Actions, Victims, and Police Response Ashok Kharat, also known as "Maha Deva," has been a central figure in multiple scams across Maharashtra, targeting couples and individuals with false spiritual claims. Here's a consolidated overview of recent developments and key details: --- Recent Scam Involving a Couple Case Details: A couple in Nashik was scammed by Kharat, who posed as a spiritual leader. He convinced them to invest in fake gemstones and gold, promising spiritual benefits. The couple lost significant wealth, leading to a new FIR (First Information Report) being filed against Khat. Legal Action: The Nashik Police has registered a case under sections like 420 (cheating) and 341 (wrongful restraint) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The investigation is ongoing to trace the stolen assets. Previous Arrests and Legal Proceedings Arrests: Kharat has been arrested multiple times for similar scams. In 2023, he was arrested in Pune and Nashik for deceiving victims with fake spiritual products. Charges: He faces charges of fraudulent investment, exploitation of vulnerable individuals, and illegal possession of stolen goods. Court Cases: Several cases are pending in Nashik and Pune courts, with the police seeking the confiscation of his assets. --- Police and Public Response Police Actions: The Nashik Police Chief (Sandeep Karnik) has shared videos of Khat's activities online to warn the public and track his movements. The police are also collaborating with cybercrime units to trace digital footprints. Public Outcry: Victims and local communities have condemned Kharat's actions, calling for stricter penalties. Social media campaigns have raised awareness about his scams.#pune #ashok_kharat #nashik_police #sandeep_karnik
The article discusses the recent developments in the case involving Ashok Kharat, a prominent public figure in Maharashtra, and the office boy who allegedly faced harassment from him. Here's a concise summary of the key points: Incident Overview: An office boy (employee) allegedly faced harassment by Ashok Kharat, a public personality. The harassment reportedly occurred during a private interaction, which the office boy recorded. The office boy stored the video evidence in multiple locations to protect himself from threats, including physical harm and intimidation from Kharat. Leak of Videos: Despite the office boy's efforts to keep the videos private, they eventually leaked, leading to public scrutiny of Kharat. The leak is attributed to the office boy's fear of retaliation, as Kharat allegedly threatened him and his family. The videos were reportedly shared with multiple individuals, who in turn stored copies in different places to ensure the evidence remained accessible. Police Investigation: Nashik Police Commissioner Sandeep Karnik provided details about the investigation, stating that the police have not accessed the videos yet. The police are focusing on gathering evidence, including the storage locations of the videos, and are working to trace the source of the leak. The case is being treated seriously, with the police emphasizing their commitment to justice and transparency. Public Reaction and Legal Implications: The incident has sparked discussions about workplace harassment, the role of public figures, and the importance of evidence preservation. Legal proceedings are ongoing, with the police likely to file charges against Kharat if sufficient evidence is found.#maharashtra #ashok_kharat #nashik_police_commissioner_sandeep_karnik #office_boy #video_leak
Rupali Chakankar, a prominent figure in the National Congress Party (NCP), has resigned from her position as the state president of the party's women's wing amid controversy surrounding the Ashok Kharat case. The incident has drawn significant attention, with allegations against Kharat, a spiritual leader currently under investigation for sexual misconduct, leading to public scrutiny. Chakankar, who had previously stepped down from the role of chairperson of the State Women's Commission, has now resigned from her NCP position after facing backlash over her association with Kharat. The controversy erupted after social media posts circulated videos and photographs of Chakankar performing rituals for Kharat, which were interpreted as supporting his alleged misconduct. Despite her claims of innocence, the backlash persisted, prompting her to issue a public statement. In a social media post, Chakankar emphasized that there is no connection between Kharat's alleged actions and her financial dealings or personal conduct. She reiterated her stance that the allegations are baseless and demanded a transparent, impartial investigation to uncover the truth. Chakankar's resignation followed a series of public criticisms and media scrutiny. She stated that her decision was influenced by the pressure from the public and the need to distance herself from the controversy. However, she maintained her position that the allegations against Kharat are unfounded and that the investigation should proceed without bias. Her comments reflect a broader tension between public perception and the legal process, as the case continues to unfold. The incident highlights the challenges faced by public figures when allegations, even if unproven, gain traction in the media and social platforms.#social_media #national_congress_party #ashok_kharat #rupali_chakankar #state_women_s_commission
Ashok Kharat's Legal Troubles Escalate Amid Allegations of Extortion and Rape A self-styled godman and astrologer based in Nashik, Ashok Kharat, faces mounting legal challenges after being arrested for alleged rape and accused of extortion, human sacrifice, and violating the Anti-Superstition Act. The 67-year-old, who previously served as a Merchant Navy officer and billed himself as "Captain," is now under investigation for crimes that span multiple jurisdictions. According to a complaint filed by a Pune-based builder, Kharat extorted nearly Rs 5 crore from him through coercive practices. The builder alleged that Kharat, who had a clientele including political leaders and VIPs, demanded he perform an "Avatar Puja" to ensure success in his logistics business. The builder claims he was forced to purchase a Mercedes-Benz for Kharat, instilled with fear of death through threats involving a fake snake. Kharat allegedly intimidated the builder by warning of the "Wrath of the Snake Deity," claiming that failure to comply would result in a fatal snakebite. This threat led the builder to travel to 21 countries to acquire the "Paras" (Philosopher's Stone), a supposed mystical object, while bearing all associated costs. The police complaint states that Kharat also extracted the full cost of constructing his farmhouse in Mirgaon from the builder. The builder further alleged that he was held captive near the Ishanyeshwar Mahadev Temple, where Kharat serves as president, and subjected to death threats. Money was reportedly extorted to cover expenses for the farmhouse's furniture. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that a lookout circular was issued against Kharat on March 10 to prevent him from fleeing the country.#devendra_fadnavis #nashik #ashok_kharat #sarkarwada_police_station #shivnika_sansthan
Ashok Kharat Scandal Exposes Maharashtra’s Godman–Power Nexus The arrest of Ashok Kharat, a self-styled Godman from Nashik, on charges of rape, molestation, and cheating has sparked a political crisis in Maharashtra. His alleged network, which connected him to politicians across multiple parties, bureaucrats, and senior police officers, has triggered resignations, accusations, and factional maneuvering within the ruling Mahayuti alliance. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that eight cases had been registered against Kharat, with three women agreeing to file formal complaints. Police seized two laptops, a revolver, and 21 live cartridges during searches at his properties. Kharat, whose real name is Ashokkumar Eknath Kharat, hailed from Kahandalwadi village in Nashik district. He worked as a merchant navy officer before adopting the title “Captain” as part of his public persona. Local sources and a senior revenue officer in Nashik revealed that his formal education ended at Class 8. After returning to Nashik in 1992, he transitioned through various occupations before establishing himself as an astrologer and numerologist in 2002. The officer claimed Kharat sold cheap ornaments bought in Mumbai as “God-gifted jewellery,” often inflating their prices by hundreds of times. In 2003, he allegedly cheated a police officer and two women close to him, with a local politician intervening to protect him at the time. Over the next two decades, Kharat built a following across North Maharashtra, attracting politicians, bureaucrats, police officers, builders, and industrialists. He constructed the Ishaneshwar temple in Mirgaon village and established the Shivanika charitable trust, with Chakankar listed as a trustee.#devendra_fadnavis #chandrakant_patil #harshwardhan_sapkal #ashok_kharat #jaykumar_rawal
Nashik Astrolger Rape Case: 7th Rape Case Against Astrologer Ashok Kharat A 24-year-old woman has accused astrologer Ashok Kharat of sexual exploitation and rape in a seventh case against him, according to police in Nashik. The complainant alleged that Kharat drugged her with sedatives during spiritual rituals and raped her on four occasions between July and December 2024 at his office in Canada Corner. The incident came after she and her parents approached him for guidance on career and education decisions. The Sarkarwada police registered the case on Tuesday night, bringing the total number of rape allegations against Kharat to seven. The first case was filed on March 17, and Kharat remains in police custody until March 29. The complainant told investigators she feared disclosing the abuse to her parents due to Kharat’s threats to use his alleged “divine powers” to harm her family and her father. She only came forward after learning about Kharat’s arrest, prompting her parents to file a formal complaint. Kharat, who founded a temple in Mirgaon, is known for his spiritual influence in Nashik. The complainant stated that her family became aware of his powers during a temple visit and sought his advice for personal and professional issues. The case has drawn attention due to Kharat’s connections with local political leaders, leading the state government to establish a special investigation team (SIT) under senior IPS officer Tejaswi Satpute. The SIT was formed after multiple complaints surfaced about Kharat’s alleged involvement in rape, black magic, and “aghori” practices. The first case against him involved a woman who claimed he raped her between November 2022 and December 2025, using spiritual rituals as a pretext. She also alleged he threatened her to keep the abuse secret.#ashok_kharat #tejaswi_satpute #sarkarwada_police #mirgaon_temple #canada_corner
Ashok Kharat Case Nashik Crime News Ashok Kharat Case Nashik Crime News: A self-proclaimed astrologer, Captain Ashok Kharat, accused of exploiting women through a purported open market of superstition, has been placed in police custody until March 29. The accused, known for allegedly sexually harassing multiple women, faces legal proceedings under the court’s directive. Currently, an investigative team (SIIT) is conducting a thorough inquiry into the case, with disturbing details emerging that could reshape the narrative. The probe has uncovered evidence suggesting Kharat’s activities were more extensive than initially reported, prompting authorities to intensify their efforts. Published at : 26 Mar 2026 01:56 PM (IST) Rupali Chakankar Nashik Crime News NASHIK Ashok Kharat Ashok Kharat Case The case has sparked widespread public outrage, with calls for stricter action against individuals who exploit vulnerable groups under the guise of spiritual or astrological practices. Legal experts emphasize that the investigation’s findings could set a precedent for similar cases, highlighting the need for stringent measures against such exploitation. As the SIIT continues its probe, authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. The case underscores the growing awareness of gender-based crimes and the importance of legal accountability in addressing such issues. The ongoing investigation aims to ensure justice for the victims and prevent further exploitation. Updates on the case are expected as the probe progresses, with potential implications for both the legal system and societal attitudes toward such crimes.#nashik #ashok_kharat #rupali_chakankar #siit #nashik_crime_news
Honest probe into Kharat case will jail dozens of ministers: Cong The controversy surrounding arrested “godman” Ashok Kharat, who has been named in at least seven cases of rape, fraud, and exploitation, has intensified after Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) chief Harshwardhan Sapkal claimed an impartial investigation could implicate dozens of ministers and officials. In a public statement and on social media platform X, Sapkal alleged that if the government conducts a thorough probe, “many ministers and officers will land in jail,” citing deep-rooted links between influential figures and the accused. Sapkal pointed to alleged connections between Kharat and individuals in key administrative positions, including an official currently serving in the housing authority. He also referenced images showing a Union minister with Kharat and claimed senior state leaders had close associations with the controversial “godman.” Further allegations included claims that certain political figures had performed “mystic rituals” through Kharat to secure power. The MPCC chief questioned the timing of the government’s response, asserting that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis was aware of the allegations for months but failed to act earlier. Sapkal suggested that proximity to individuals linked to the case may have delayed action. He also alleged that the government’s response was triggered only after BJP allies allegedly used Kharat in occult rituals to destabilize the current leadership. According to Sapkal, “action was taken only when such activities were used against the CM,” a charge that highlights intra-political tensions. Sapkal further claimed the case is being used as leverage within political circles, stating, “The case is being used to pressure allies and internal rivals.#bjp #devendra_fadnavis #harshwardhan_sapkal #ashok_kharat #maharashtra_pradesh_congress_committee
Cops probing 'human sacrifice' angle behind recovery of 5 spent cartridges of revolver from Kharat’s farmhouse: State tells Nashik court The prosecution in Nashik has informed a magisterial court that police are investigating whether five spent cartridges of a revolver, seized along with 21 live rounds from astrologer Ashok Kharat’s farmhouse, were used for "causing bodily harm, murder, or human sacrifice." The special investigation team (SIT), led by senior IPS officer Tejaswi Satpute, is also examining Kharat’s potential acquisition of movable and immovable properties, including their ownership details. Additional public prosecutor Shailendra Bagade submitted this information to the court, seeking an extension of Kharat’s remand in police custody until March 29. Kharat, arrested on March 17, faces allegations of repeatedly raping a woman between November 2022 and December 2025 under the pretense of using spiritual powers and conducting rituals to cure her of a curse. The woman also claimed he threatened her into silence. A Nashik court initially remanded him in custody until March 24, but the SIT’s probe intensified after additional complaints of rape, black magic, and "aghori" practices emerged. The case gained political traction due to Kharat’s connections with several leaders. During the remand proceedings, Bagade cited police findings that Kharat allegedly told witnesses about defects in their homes and distributed "Kasturi" (deer musk) and yantras. Investigators are now probing the source of the deer musk and whether Kharat engaged in illegal activities under the guise of spiritual authority. Witnesses, some of whom remain anonymous, reported that Kharat summoned people to his temple at night, displayed "snakes and tigers," and extorted money by threatening them with misfortune.#ashok_kharat #nashik_court #tejaswi_satpute #shailendra_bagade #sit
Godman Kharat faces 8 FIRs, including of rape; SIT probing role of officials, aides: Fadnavis Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced on Tuesday that eight FIRs have been filed against self-styled godman Ashok Kharat following multiple complaints alleging sexual assault, extortion, and the distribution of objectionable material. The cases, which include allegations of rape, have prompted the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the matter. Fadnavis, who holds the Home portfolio, revealed that Kharat was in police custody until March 29, 2026, and that the SIT is examining potential involvement of government officials and aides in the alleged offenses. The FIRs were registered after police examined phone call records, messages, and screenshots, with cases under the IT Act and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) section 308 (extortion) being filed. Fadnavis highlighted a complaint filed on February 18, 2026, in Shirdi, Ahilyanagar district, where a woman alleged that Neeraj Jadhav created and shared an AI-generated image of her, threatening to make it viral. Though the accused deleted the image, he issued threats, and a case was registered, though the complainant provided limited details. During the investigation, police recovered crucial evidence from devices linked to Kharat’s aides. Fadnavis accused Kharat of posing as a religious figure to exploit women, stating that he allegedly engaged in rape and obscene behavior. A witness who attempted to provide evidence reportedly feared for their life. The CM also mentioned that a lookout circular was issued on March 10 to prevent Kharat from leaving the country, and the SIT was constituted to handle the probe.#devendra_fadnavis #nashik #shirdi #ashok_kharat #sarkarwada_police_station
Ashok Kharat, Nashik Godman, Astrologer: Repeated Assault, Threats, Forced Abortion: Nashik Godman's Chilling Crimes A retired Merchant Navy officer who styled himself as "Captain," Ashok Kharat, has been accused of a series of heinous crimes including repeated sexual assault, threats, and forced abortion. Multiple women have come forward to detail how he exploited his position as a self-proclaimed godman and astrologer to manipulate and abuse them. The investigation into his activities has uncovered a pattern of psychological coercion, financial exploitation, and physical violence, revealing how he used fear and superstition to maintain control over his victims. Kharat operated under the guise of spiritual guidance, leveraging his reputation to target individuals in vulnerable situations. His office was designed to create an eerie, occult atmosphere, complete with fake snakes, wildlife props, and other items that instilled fear in his clients. Investigators found that he meticulously assessed his victims’ financial status before exploiting their desperation. By promising miracles and divine intervention, he convinced them to pay exorbitant sums for his services, often inflating the value of simple items to nearly a lakh rupees. The abuse extended to students, pregnant women, and married individuals, with victims describing how Kharat used threats to silence them. One 28-year-old BSc student alleged that he called her before every exam, warning her that he would expose her affair with her husband if she refused to meet him. Under duress, she endured repeated sexual assault between 2023 and December 2025. Another victim, a woman in her seventh month of pregnancy, claimed Kharat assaulted her during a ritual intended to ensure a safe delivery and the birth of a male child.#sexual_assault #nashik #ashok_kharat #nashik_godman #forced_abortion
Sapkal questions Maha delay in Kharat probe Maharashtra Congress president Harshwardhan Sapkal criticized the state government's handling of the Ashok Kharat case, accusing officials of delaying action despite early warnings. Speaking to media in Buldhana, Sapkal claimed Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had knowledge of the case as early as Diwali last year when allegations against the self-styled godman began emerging. He questioned the government's inaction, noting that evidence collection had already started in October-November. "What was the CM doing for six months?" Sapkal asked, urging the BJP-led government to intensify the investigation. Sapkal described the case as sparking a "disturbing discourse" in Maharashtra and called for stricter measures, including additional support for the Special Investigation Team (SIT), the formation of a task force, and strict action against the accused. He also alleged that the government was prolonging the case, citing the resignation of former State Women's Commission chairperson Rupali Chakankar as an example. "Cases must be registered against all those involved," he said, emphasizing the need for accountability. Linking the incident to broader societal issues, Sapkal criticized superstition as a root cause. "Society must learn from this and adopt a scientific temper," he stated, referencing late rationalist Narendra Dabholkar. He urged continued efforts to combat superstition, noting that Dabholkar's work was vital to preventing such distortions. Sapkal also raised concerns about law and order, citing an incident in Satara during a ZP election where Shiv Sena ministers Shambhuraje Desai and Makarand Patil reportedly claimed they were "manhandled by police.#devendra_fadnavis #harshwardhan_sapkal #ashok_kharat #rupali_chakankar #narendra_dabholkar
Nashik Court Extends Custody of 'Godman' Ashok Kharat to March 29; Two Attempt to Attack Him Outside Court A court in Nashik on Tuesday extended the police custody of self-styled godman Ashok Kharat to March 29 in a rape case that has gained significant attention. Kharat, who was arrested on March 18, was produced before the court under heavy security measures. Outside the courtroom, a man attempted to attack him but was intercepted by police and detained. Later, another individual from the crowd tried to assault him as he was being escorted out of the premises. The prosecution informed the court that the Special Investigation Team (SIT), led by deputy Superintendent of Police Kirankumar Suryavanshi, had recovered several items from Kharat’s possession, including a revolver, 21 cartridges, five empty shells, Rs 6 lakh in cash, two laptops, and some documents. Public prosecutor Ajay Misar stated that new details about Kharat’s alleged illegal activities were emerging daily, prompting the request for further custody. Kharat, who heads a temple trust at Mirgaon in Sinnar tehsil of Nashik district, denied the allegations during his court appearance. He claimed he was not involved in any form of black magic. When asked about reports of keeping a mechanised king cobra and a tiger for intimidation, he expressed ignorance regarding such claims. Despite his lawyers opposing the police’s plea for extended custody, the court approved the extension until March 29. Outside the court, activist Trupti Desai of the Bhumata Brigade attempted to charge at Kharat but was stopped by police. The SIT has registered six cases against Kharat, including allegations involving a pregnant woman.#ashok_kharat #special_investigation_team #nashik_court #kirankumar_suryavanshi #trupti_desai
Ashok Kharat, a self-styled astrologer and godman in Nashik, Maharashtra, faces allegations of multiple crimes including sexual assault, blackmail, and suspected human sacrifices. The case has sparked public outrage as investigators uncover disturbing details about his alleged activities. A public prosecutor revealed that Kharat, a former Merchant Navy officer, is accused of sexually assaulting several women and threatening them under the pretense of religious rituals. During a court appearance, he was granted an additional five days of police custody, extending his detention until March 29. The prosecutor disclosed that a revolver, 21 live cartridges, and five used bullets were seized from his residence, raising suspicions that the bullets may have been used in rituals linked to "narbali," a term associated with human sacrifice. The investigation has also uncovered a network of assets worth millions, including land, luxury flats, offices, and marriage halls across multiple cities. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis confirmed that a revolver was found at Kharat’s farmhouse, alongside Rs 6.5 lakh in cash and two laptops. The case has exposed how Kharat exploited fear and superstition to manipulate his victims, branding his actions as a "process of purification" and claiming to be an "avatar of Lord Shankar." Kharat allegedly threatened victims with divine curses and their children’s futures if they resisted his demands. He is accused of using props like fake snakes and tiger skins to create an occult atmosphere, while selling inexpensive items for exorbitant prices. Despite facing multiple charges of sexual assault, blackmail, and fraud, Kharat denied practicing black magic, claiming he answered all questions during his seven-day custody.#maharashtra #devendra_fadnavis #nashik #ashok_kharat #narbali
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis asserted that no one will be exempt from accountability in the investigation into the rape-accused astrologer Ashok Kharat, emphasizing that the case is being monitored at the highest level. Speaking in Nagpur, Fadnavis stated that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the case is under strict oversight and that political affiliations will not shield any individuals. "This is a matter of women's dignity. No one will be spared under any circumstances," he declared, dismissing attempts by the opposition to politicize the case. Fadnavis directed the director general of police (DGP) to oversee the probe, highlighting efforts to encourage victims to come forward. He acknowledged societal pressures that often prevent women from reporting crimes, stating that investigators are working to reassure victims and their families to foster courage. "We are aware that women do not come forward immediately due to shame or social pressure," he said, adding that the administration has taken proactive steps to support victims. The chief minister revealed that his government uncovered the case based on intelligence inputs, calling it "extremely serious." He emphasized that the investigation is being handled at the most senior levels, with the Nashik commissioner of police and the SIT collaborating closely. Fadnavis also addressed opposition demands for action against individuals linked to Kharat, questioning why those in the former Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government who provided favors to the accused should not face consequences. He cited the example of a 40-km water line project approved through a special Cabinet meeting, asking why such actions were not previously scrutinized.#devendra_fadnavis #maha_vikas_aghadi #ashok_kharat #special_investigation_team #maharashtra_women_s_commission
