Self-Styled Godman Arrested: Ashok Kharat Held in Eighth Sexual Exploitation Case

Ashok Kharat, a self-proclaimed godman and astrologer, has been taken into custody by Nashik police in connection to an eighth case of sexual exploitation. Named in multiple FIRs for rape and financial fraud, Kharat was denied police remand and is held in judicial custody until May 12.

A self-styled godman in Maharashtra, Ashok Kharat, faces legal woes as he lands in judicial custody over an eighth charge of sexual exploitation. Despite pleas for police remand by the Special Investigation Team (SIT), the Nashik district court extended his incarceration until May 12, marking a significant setback for Kharat.

The state police compiled multiple accusations against Kharat, including allegations of rape and financial misconduct. In the recent case, a woman alleged sexual exploitation at his hands when she sought help for personal problems. Previous hearings pointed to the SIT’s repetitive argument in support of police custody, leading the court to favor judicial detainment.

Kharat's case has attracted widespread attention, given his political links and claims of supernatural abilities. Since his initial arrest in March, the SIT has been actively investigating a series of complaints revolving around sexual and financial offenses in Nashik and Ahilyanagar districts.