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
