Godman Ashok Kharat faces extensive probe for sexual assault, extortion, and fraud

Self-styled godman Ashok Kharat, widely known as 'Bhondu Baba,' is at the center of a sprawling investigation in Maharashtra, facing grave allegations of sexual assault, extortion, fraud, and even human sacrifice. The case, which has sent shockwaves through the state's political circles, is being handled by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) under the guidance of IPS officer Tejaswini Satpute. The investigation gained momentum following a complaint by a 35-year-old woman who alleged repeated rape and sexual exploitation by Kharat between November 2022 and December 2025. She claims Kharat used fear tactics, including threats to her husband's life, and administered sedative-laced drinks to facilitate the assaults. This initial complaint has since broadened, with the SIT receiving over 100 complaints, predominantly from women, detailing various forms of exploitation. These complaints suggest a pattern of abuse where Kharat allegedly lured women by promising to resolve their personal, financial, or career problems through rituals and divine powers. Evidence recovered by the police is extensive and disturbing. Over 100 objectionable videos have been found on a pen drive and other digital devices, some of which are believed to depict the sexual abuse of multiple victims. Additionally, financial records, including bank statements and property documents, are being meticulously examined. Preliminary investigations suggest Kharat amassed assets worth approximately ₹1,500 crore, with properties identified in Nashik, Mumbai, and Panvel. The Income Tax department is actively involved in scrutinizing these financial trails and alleged benami properties. The modus operandi of Ashok Kharat appears to have involved a combination of manipulation, coercion, and alleged use of hypnosis and drugged substances. Social activist Anjali Damania has accused Kharat of selling a concoction called 'Oshno Jal,' which she claims was a mixture of cough syrup, water, and crushed Viagra, to prominent leaders. She also alleges that Kharat employed hypnosis to control his followers and exploit them financially and sexually. Reports indicate that Kharat used different mobile phones to contact high-profile individuals, including women, and operated under various guises, including a former Merchant Navy officer known as 'Captain.' The case has also exposed a significant network of influence, with allegations that Kharat had close ties to numerous politicians, businessmen, and bureaucrats. Several leaders from both ruling and opposition parties in Maharashtra have reportedly been in contact with Kharat, seeking his advice on various matters, including electoral outcomes and personal issues. Photos and videos have surfaced showing prominent political figures, including Rupali Chakankar, former chairperson of the Maharashtra State Commission for Women, with Kharat, leading to political uproar and demands for accountability. Some reports suggest that Kharat's influence may have extended to influencing administrative decisions, particularly in the education sector. In response to the growing scandal, the Maharashtra government has formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by IPS officer Tejaswini Satpute. The SIT is tasked with conducting a comprehensive probe into all aspects of the case, including sexual exploitation, financial fraud, and potential involvement of public officials. The investigation is ongoing, with Kharat's police custody extended multiple times to facilitate further inquiry. The scope of the investigation has also widened to include prominent doctors in Nashik, who are being examined for their alleged role in providing medications used to sedate or prevent pregnancies in victims. The legal proceedings have seen multiple FIRs registered against Kharat, totaling over ten, primarily for rape and cheating. The case has drawn comparisons to 'Epstein Files' due to the alleged involvement of high-profile individuals and the scale of the exploitation. The Maharashtra government has assured strict action against all those found guilty, emphasizing zero tolerance for crimes committed under the guise of faith.

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