Political leaders in Maharashtra on Friday demanded the arrest of Rupali Chakankar, Chairperson of the Maharashtra State Commission for Women, over alleged links to self-styled godman Ashok Kharat, who has been arrested in a case involving serial rape, sexual exploitation and blackmail.
Sushma Andhare, a leader of the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray faction), alleged that Chakankar abetted Kharat’s activities and demanded her immediate arrest.
“Arrest Rupali Chakankar immediately. She must be questioned face-to-face and subjected to a narco test. She should also be removed from her post, as she could use her position to exert pressure on survivors and witnesses,” Andhare said.
She further alleged that some victims had accused Chakankar of issuing threats and called for a probe by the Economic Offences Wing into the assets of both Chakankar and Kharat.
Andhare also cited claims by a victim regarding alleged occult practices, displaying a photograph purportedly showing Chakankar with a bandaged ring finger. She linked the claim to alleged “tantra-mantra” practices, though these assertions remain unverified.
The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader further alleged close personal ties between Chakankar and Kharat, claiming that Chakankar was present at family functions of the accused and had facilitated his interactions with women. “If such individuals remain in political parties, it will discourage women from entering politics,” she said.
Meanwhile, Rupali Thombre-Patil of the Nationalist Congress Party (Ajit Pawar faction) also demanded Chakankar’s removal from both her party and constitutional post, and sought her inclusion as a co-accused in the case.
She alleged that Chakankar was associated with a trust run by Kharat and had attempted to suppress earlier media reports exposing him.
Thombre-Patil further claimed that evidence, including videos allegedly seized in the case, could implicate several political figures.
She also indicated that she would soon present additional details regarding Kharat’s activities in the Pune region.
In a related development, senior NCP leader Praful Patel called for strict action against Kharat and anyone found associated with him.
“Appropriate action will be taken, and it will be seen very soon,” he said.
However, another senior NCP leader, Sunil Tatkare, declined to comment on the matter, saying he would speak at an appropriate time.
The allegations come amid a widening political controversy, with demands for accountability and investigation into the role of individuals allegedly linked to the accused.