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
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 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
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
