What began as a complaint of spiritual betrayal has now snowballed into a major criminal probe. Nashik-based astrologer Ashok Kharat stands accused of repeatedly raping a 35-year-old woman over several years, allegedly exploiting her under the guise of spiritual guidance. Police say the alleged abuse took place between 2022 and December 2025, with the accused using intimidation and manipulation to maintain control over the survivor.
As more victims began to come forward, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed to probe serious allegations against Kharat, the chairman of the Shri Ishanyeshwar Temple Trust in Sinnar. The investigation is being overseen by the Nashik Police Commissioner as the case continues to expand with new complaints emerging.
Key developments in the case so far:
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SIT formed on CM’s orders A Special Investigation Team headed by IPS officer Tejaswini Satpute was appointed by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on March 19 to investigate the case.
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SIT chief tasked with deeper probe into evidence The SIT, led by Satpute, has been directed to carry out a detailed investigation into 58 videos found on a pen drive seized from Kharat. The probe will also look into financial transactions linked to the Shri Shivnika Sansthan Trust controlled by him, and any political or religious connections.
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Court extends police custody till April 1 A magistrate court on Sunday extended Kharat’s police custody till April 1 after the investigating officer said the probe was still underway. The court was told that digital experts need to examine a cloned copy of his seized mobile phone in his presence.
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Cloned phone data obtained for analysis The SIT has secured a cloned copy of Kharat’s mobile phone from the state forensic sciences laboratory, which is expected to play a key role in the investigation.
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‘Drugged drink’ angle under probe The prosecutor told the court that in the rape case for which Kharat was arrested, he allegedly gave the victim a “salty and bitter” drink that left her feeling light-headed before the assault. The SIT is now probing the source of the liquid and what substance may have been mixed in it.
- Total 10 FIRs filed, majority linked to rape charges
Police have registered a total of ten FIRs against Kharat so far, with eight of them pertaining to rape allegations, indicating the scale and seriousness of the accusations against him.
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Over 100 complaints registered via helpline Police have received more than 100 complaints against Kharat through a dedicated helpline, with nearly 70% of the complainants being women. Officials say the helpline was launched to help victims report incidents confidentially.
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Victims cite fear and social pressure According to police sources, many women were initially reluctant to file written complaints due to fear of defamation, social stigma, and the accused’s alleged political connections. The confidential helpline has helped increase reporting.
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Multiple allegations of sexual abuse and fraud Investigators say the case involves not just sexual exploitation but also financial fraud, with several victims accusing Kharat of cheating them under various pretexts.
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Businessman alleges cheating In a particular fraud case, Nevasa-based businessman Rajendra Bhagwat has accused Kharat of cheating him by selling rings worth lakhs of rupees, claiming they would improve his business prospects.
The investigation is ongoing, and officials say more complaints and disclosures are expected in the coming days as the SIT continues its probe.