A court in Maharashtra’s Nashik has remanded self-styled godman Ashok Kharat to 14-day judicial custody in connection with multiple sexual assault allegations, officials said on Wednesday, reported news agency PTI.
Court Orders Judicial Custody After Police Remand Ends
Kharat was produced before the court after the end of his police custody on Wednesday. The Special Investigation Team (SIT), which is probing the case, sought judicial custody during the hearing, reported PTI.
Sessions judge B N Ichpurani subsequently ordered that Kharat be sent to judicial custody till April 14. He will be lodged at Nashik Road Central Jail, reported PTI.
Arrest Followed Multiple Allegations
Kharat was arrested on March 18 after a 35-year-old woman accused him of repeatedly raping her over a period of three years. Following his arrest, several more complaints of a similar nature surfaced.
Authorities have registered at least 10 FIRs against him at Sarkarwada police station, including eight related to alleged sexual assault or exploitation and two for cheating, reported PTI.
SIT Probe Expands as Complaints Rise
The SIT has been actively investigating the case and has reportedly received over 100 complaints via phone, indicating a wider pattern of alleged misconduct.
Officials said the probe is ongoing, with investigators examining evidence and statements from multiple complainants.
Family Members Under Scanner
On Wednesday, the SIT detained Kharat’s son, Harshvardhan, for questioning from their residence in Karmayogi Nagar. He was later released the same day, reported PTI.
Investigators are also attempting to trace Kharat’s wife, Kalpana, who has been named in a cheating case registered in Ahilyanagar district, reported PTI.
Evidence Seized from Premises
Last week, the SIT conducted a search operation at Kharat’s office in Nashik along with a forensic science team. During the raid, officials recovered documents, files, and other materials relevant to the investigation.
Among the items seized was a 20-foot remote-controlled mechanised snake, which Kharat allegedly used to create an illusion of possessing supernatural powers.
Godman’s Influence Under Scrutiny
Kharat, who heads a temple trust in Sinnar, had reportedly built a following over the years, with several political figures visiting him in the past.
As the investigation continues, authorities are expected to further examine the extent of the allegations and identify any additional victims or associates linked to the case.
(With inputs from PTI)
