Maharashtra Deputy Collector Suspended for Alleged Ties with Godman

The Maharashtra government suspends Deputy Collector Abhijit Bhande-Patil due to his alleged connections with self-styled godman Ashok Kharat, who was arrested for rape and financial irregularities. Initial investigations indicate Bhande-Patil's links with Kharat, prompting Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule's decision to suspend him pending further inquiry.

The Maharashtra government has taken decisive action by suspending Deputy Collector Abhijit Bhande-Patil over his alleged connections with the controversial figure, Ashok Kharat. This marks the first official crackdown following the high-profile case involving Kharat earlier this year.

In March, Kharat was arrested after a woman accused him of rape. Investigations into his financial dealings unveiled 'benami' bank accounts and suspicious land transactions. State Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule revealed preliminary findings suggesting Bhande-Patil's involvement with Kharat.

Bawankule stated, "Prima facie, he appears guilty. Until the investigation concludes, we have decided to suspend Bhande-Patil." Bhande-Patil was recently repatriated to his parent department and was serving in the Slum Rehabilitation Authority in Mumbai.