Mumbai: In a major development in the high-profile ‘fraud godman’ case from Nashik district, a court on Wednesday remanded self-styled godman Ashok Kharat to 14 days of judicial custody. He is accused of sexually exploiting more than 150 women under the pretext of black magic and offering solutions to their personal and professional problems.
The court passed the order after the expiry of his police custody. According to investigators, the accused had been targeting women for years by promising to resolve issues related to their careers, relationships, and family life. He projected himself as a spiritual healer and problem-solver to gain their trust.
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The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the case has revealed disturbing details indicating that the accused not only exploited women but also allegedly forced them into physical relationships with influential individuals. Victims were reportedly administered intoxicating substances and coerced into meeting politicians, businessmen, and senior officials.
Sources linked to the investigation said the accused recorded videos of such encounters and used them as tools for blackmail. He allegedly demanded large sums of money, luxury vehicles, and other favours from these individuals. In cases of non-compliance, he threatened to make the videos public, thereby trapping several high-profile figures in his network.
Another shocking aspect that emerged during the probe involves the bizarre practices imposed on followers in the name of ‘treatment’. Vegetarian devotees were allegedly tricked into consuming fish, presented as wild herbs, with claims that it would cure mental health issues. Investigators believe such tactics were used to manipulate and control followers by exploiting their faith and fears.
The probe has now extended to the accused’s family members. His wife is currently absconding, while his son has been arrested. His daughter is also being questioned. Authorities suspect that multiple prime properties may have been acquired in the names of family members, potentially to conceal proceeds of illegal activities.
According to sources, investigators have retrieved crucial data from four mobile phones belonging to the accused. However, the identities of several influential individuals remain unclear as their names were stored using code words. The SIT is currently working to decode these entries to expose the full extent of the network.
Investigators have also found that more than 35 legislators and ministers allegedly visited the accused’s ‘darbar’ regularly and sought his advice on key decisions. There are indications that he may have attempted to influence administrative processes by maintaining contacts with certain bureaucrats.
The case has once again highlighted the dangerous consequences of blind faith and the unchecked influence of self-styled godmen. Experts point out that individuals facing personal distress or uncertainty often become vulnerable to such manipulation, making them easy targets for exploitation.
The SIT continues its detailed investigation, and more revelations are expected in the coming days. The next court hearing is likely to bring further clarity on the extent of the alleged crimes. What initially appeared to be an isolated case now points toward a much larger, organized network operating under the guise of spirituality and faith.
