Maharashtra Deputy Collector Suspended Over Ties with Controversial Godman

The Maharashtra government has suspended Deputy Collector Abhijit Bhande-Patil due to alleged links with self-styled godman Ashok Kharat. The suspension follows Kharat's arrest in March for rape and financial irregularities. Preliminary investigations indicate Bhande-Patil's involvement, prompting swift action by Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule.

The Maharashtra government has taken decisive action by suspending Deputy Collector Abhijit Bhande-Patil. This move comes amid allegations of his connections to Ashok Kharat, a self-styled godman arrested in March.

Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule announced the suspension on Thursday, citing preliminary investigations that suggest Bhande-Patil's involvement with Kharat, who faced charges of rape and financial misconduct.

This is the first crackdown on officials linked to the case that shook the state earlier this year, showcasing the government's firm stance on addressing corruption and misconduct within its ranks.