Maharashtra ‘Epstein of India’? Self‑styled Godman Ashok Kharat Arrested 

New Delhi: Self‑styled godman and astrologer Ashok Kharat, also known locally as “Captain,” has been arrested by Nashik police in connection with a serious sexual exploitation/rape case, triggering major controversy and political backlash in the state. 

Police say the crime branch registered an FIR on March 17, 2026, following a complaint by a woman alleging that Kharat sexually exploited her over several years while posing as a spiritual advisor. 

Law enforcement officials seized a pen drive containing at least 58 objectionable videos from Kharat’s possession during the investigation, which police believe were used to intimidate and blackmail multiple women. 

Kharat, a retired Merchant Navy officer who later adopted the persona of a numerologist and spiritual guide, is accused under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (including rape and sexual exploitation provisions), along with the Maharashtra Prevention and Eradication of Human Sacrifice and other Inhuman, Evil and Aghori Practices and Black Magic Act. 

According to police, the victim approached Kharat for guidance over personal issues and was allegedly misled, drugged and sexually exploited under the guise of receiving spiritual help. 

The arrest has sparked a political and social uproar after photos and video clips circulated online showing Rupali Chakankar, chairperson of the Maharashtra State Commission for Women, in the company of Kharat at public events. One clip widely shared on social media appears to show Chakankar paying obeisance and performing a ritual gesture for Kharat, and in another she is shown holding an umbrella over him. 

Opposition leaders and civil society groups have seized on the visuals, demanding that Chakankar explain her association with the accused and calling for accountability. Critics argue that such proximity raises questions about moral and institutional safeguards, especially given the grave nature of the allegations against Kharat. 

Chakankar has responded by saying she attended events organized by a trust connected to Kharat for social work and was not aware of any wrongdoing; she has urged that the police investigation proceed impartially. 

Nashik police have remanded Kharat to custody and are continuing to examine the seized digital evidence as well as other potential complaints. A senior official has encouraged any other women who may have been targeted by the accused to come forward. 

State Home Minister officials have assured strict action against perpetrators of sexual exploitation and that all allegations will be probed thoroughly.