Senior Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar on Monday levelled a series of serious allegations in connection with the case involving arrested godman “Captain” Ashok Kharat, claiming that several senior officials and political figures may be linked to the controversy.
Addressing reporters, Vijay Wadettiwar alleged that the state government led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis was hesitant to act against certain officials due to their alleged association with Kharat.
He further claimed that several government officials and their families were in contact with the godman, and demanded that all those allegedly involved be investigated under relevant provisions, including the Superstition Eradication Act.
The Congress leader also referred to reports of digital evidence allegedly recovered in the case, claiming that a large number of videos had been found, though he added that only a fraction had so far come to light. He urged authorities to investigate all aspects of the matter, including allegations of financial irregularities.
Calling for a wider probe, Vijay Wadettiwar said, “Considering the scope of this case, a mere SIT investigation is not sufficient. The matter should be handed over to central agencies like the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) or the Enforcement Directorate (ED).”
He also demanded that all individuals allegedly linked to the case, including public representatives and officials, be questioned as part of a comprehensive investigation. Additionally, he called for the use of advanced investigative methods to uncover the full extent of the alleged activities.
Separately, Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee president Harshwardhan Sapkal also raised concerns over the case, alleging that a thorough investigation could implicate several political leaders and officials.
In a post on X, Sapkal made further allegations regarding the purported links of certain political figures with the accused and questioned the timing of the action taken against Kharat. He also alleged that the Chief Minister had prior knowledge of the matter—claims that have not been independently verified.
The allegations come amid a political storm in Maharashtra, with the opposition intensifying its attack on the ruling alliance. There has been no immediate response from the state government or the leaders named in the allegations.