Nashik Astrologer Ashok Kharat Faces More Rape and Blackmail Claims

Over 50 calls received by SIT after asking for information on Ashok Kharat, showing many people have complaints.
By Newsroom | Crime, India |

Multiple women have come forward with accusations against Ashok Kharat, a self-styled astrologer and former merchant navy officer, who was arrested on March 18. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) is currently looking into allegations encompassing rape, extortion, blackmail, human sacrifice, and black magic. The scope of the investigation has broadened, with the SIT questioning individuals connected to a local temple and inquiring into potential property fraud. Authorities have also suspended Kharat's arms license.

Kharat case: SIT probe intensifies; temple priest, watchman among those questioned - 1

BROADENING HORIZONS OF INQUIRY

The SIT's efforts have led to the questioning of a temple priest and a watchman associated with the Ishaneshwar Mahadev Temple in Nashik. These interviews are part of a wider effort to understand the extent of alleged wrongdoings. Beyond personal accusations, the probe is examining potential financial misdealings, including property fraud involving at least 52 properties linked to Kharat and his relatives.

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Kharat case: SIT probe intensifies; temple priest, watchman among those questioned - 2

Sources within Nashik indicated that at least three additional women have approached the police with complaints. This surge in accusers follows a public appeal by the SIT, which has reportedly received over 50 calls from individuals with information or complaints regarding Kharat.

Maharashtra Water Resources Minister has reportedly cancelled a government resolution that allowed Kharat's trust to draw water from the Darna Dam, citing misuse for mango orchards. This adds another layer to the investigation, focusing on alleged resource exploitation.

Kharat case: SIT probe intensifies; temple priest, watchman among those questioned - 3

ALLEGATIONS AND ARREST

Ashok Kharat faces eight First Information Reports (FIRs). The initial complaint, filed by a 35-year-old woman at the Sarkarwada police station, accuses him of repeated rape over a three-year period, along with charges of human sacrifice and black magic. ==He is alleged to have lured women under the guise of religious rituals before assaulting them.=. One complainant reported being given pills that led to a miscarriage. Another account suggests Kharat drugged women and threatened their husbands.

Kharat case: SIT probe intensifies; temple priest, watchman among those questioned - 4

His arrest on March 18 followed this initial complaint. A lookout circular had been issued for Kharat on March 10 to prevent his departure from the country. During his arrest, police recovered a weapon and ammunition. The investigation is also examining his modus operandi, which reportedly involved using different mobile phones to contact individuals, including women.

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Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated in the Legislative Assembly that the SIT would also look into the potential involvement of government officials and aides in the alleged offenses. He confirmed Kharat's custody had been extended for further investigation.

EMPIRE BUILT ON FAITH AND ALLEGED EXPLOITATION

Ashok Kharat, a 67-year-old former merchant navy officer known as ‘Captain’, is alleged to have amassed assets estimated to be around ₹100 to ₹200 crore over the past 15 years. His income sources are under scrutiny. His alleged victims claim he charged up to ₹50 lakh per visit. Assets reportedly under examination include land near Ozar airport, a bungalow, and a farmhouse near the Ishaneshwar temple.

Residents from Kharat's village have reportedly called for his assets to be seized and for the temple run by his trust to be handed over to them, citing that he brought "dishonor" to the community.

The SIT has detained Kharat's son for questioning and is reportedly searching for his wife, Kalpana, who is also implicated in a land fraud case. Two individuals have already been arrested in connection with the land fraud.

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BACKGROUND

The investigation into Ashok Kharat has revealed a pattern of alleged exploitation, with claims that he preyed on vulnerable women, using his status as a religious figure to commit sexual assault and other crimes. The involvement of a whistleblower who reportedly used a hidden camera to document Kharat's alleged actions, including the assault of a pregnant woman, has come to light. This footage is said to have captured around 100 videos detailing his alleged "unspeakable atrocities."

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is Nashik astrologer Ashok Kharat being investigated further?
Ashok Kharat, arrested on March 18, is under a wider investigation by the SIT for allegations including rape, extortion, blackmail, human sacrifice, and black magic. The probe now includes temple connections and property fraud.
Q: What new accusations have come forward against Ashok Kharat?
At least three more women have complained to the police. The SIT has received over 50 calls from people with information or complaints about Kharat since a public appeal was made.
Q: What is the SIT looking into besides personal accusations against Kharat?
The SIT is investigating potential property fraud linked to Kharat and his relatives, involving at least 52 properties. They are also questioning a temple priest and a watchman connected to the Ishaneshwar Mahadev Temple.
Q: What action has been taken regarding Kharat's resources?
Maharashtra Water Resources Minister cancelled a government order allowing Kharat's trust to draw water from Darna Dam, citing misuse. Kharat's arms license has also been suspended.
Q: What is the estimated wealth of Ashok Kharat and how did he allegedly make money?
Ashok Kharat, known as 'Captain', is believed to have amassed assets worth ₹100 to ₹200 crore over 15 years. Victims claim he charged up to ₹50 lakh per visit, allegedly luring women with religious rituals.
Q: Are government officials involved in the investigation against Kharat?
Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that the SIT will investigate the potential involvement of government officials and aides in the alleged offenses committed by Kharat.