ED Targets Self-Styled Godman in Massive Fraud and Exploitation Case

The Enforcement Directorate seeks a production warrant for Ashok Kharat in a money laundering case tied to fraud and sexual exploitation charges. Kharat, accused of laundering Rs 70 crore and running an extortion racket, faces multiple charges, including rape and exploiting women under the guise of spiritual powers.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has intensified its legal efforts against self-styled godman Ashok Kharat, pursuing a production warrant from a special PMLA court in Mumbai. Kharat, under police custody in Nashik, is embroiled in serious allegations ranging from rape and fraud to extensive financial crimes.

The PMLA court is scheduled to deliberate on the ED’s plea to assume custody of Kharat, who allegedly laundered over Rs 70 crore using 'benami' accounts. Investigations reveal he manipulated religious beliefs and exploited women, promising divine interventions while orchestrating a widespread financial scam.

Kharat, already facing numerous charges including rape and cheating, allegedly owned significant assets obtained through extortion. A Special Investigation Team is probing several complaints against him, highlighting the need for custody to uncover wider implications, including cross-border financial activities.