Nashik's Self-Styled Godman Ashok Kharat Faces New Allegations

Ashok Kharat, a self-styled godman from Nashik, has been remanded to police custody in a second rape case. Accusations include sexual exploitation under the guise of religious rituals since 2020. More complaints continue to arise as investigations reveal further alleged misconduct.

A court in Nashik, Maharashtra, has placed Ashok Kharat, a self-styled godman, in police custody for a new rape case involving allegations of sexual exploitation under the guise of religious rituals since 2020.

Kharat, previously a merchant navy officer, faces numerous accusations including cheating and sexual assault. The current case emerged after a 35-year-old woman came forward, citing ongoing exploitation since 2013.

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has found a trove of evidence against Kharat, including a mechanised snake purported to demonstrate supernatural powers, further deepening the scandal surrounding the 'godman'.

(With inputs from agencies.)