Political Leaders Caught in Controversy Over Godman Connection

The NCP (SP) demands a probe into political leaders' links with controversial godman Ashok Kharat, with Maharashtra minister Aditi Tatkare clarifying that photos don't imply support for his alleged crimes. An SIT is investigating Kharat, who faces serious allegations, while political figures face scrutiny over photos with him.

The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) (Sharad Pawar) has called for a thorough investigation into the associations between political leaders and self-proclaimed godman Ashok Kharat. This demand follows the circulation of photos featuring Kharat alongside several prominent leaders. However, Maharashtra's minister, Aditi Tatkare, has stressed that these images do not indicate any political endorsement of Kharat's alleged criminal activities.

In response to the controversy, the state government has set up a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to delve into the allegations against Kharat. NCP (SP) Maharashtra unit president Shashikant Shinde emphasized the same, further urging for stricter laws against superstition, given the potential for social discord arising from such religiously charged issues.

Kharat, who led a temple trust visited by many political figures, faces serious charges after a 35-year-old woman accused him of repeated rape. His arrest prompted political upheaval, including the resignation of Rupali Chakankar from the Maharashtra State Commission for Women. Despite the photographic evidence, NCP leaders maintain that these images do not suggest complicity or approval of Kharat's actions.

(With inputs from agencies.)