Nashik Astrologer Ashokkumar Kharat Hit with Two New Rape Cases, Accused of Exploiting Vulnerable Women
The Sarkarwada police in Nashik have intensified their investigation into arrested astrologer Ashokkumar Kharat by registering two additional cases of rape and related charges on Saturday. These new complaints add to the growing list of allegations against Kharat, who was initially arrested on March 17 in a separate rape case and remains in police custody until March 24.
First New Case: Assault on Pregnant Wife of Former Employee
One of the newly filed cases stems from a complaint lodged by Kharat's former employee, who has accused the astrologer of sexually assaulting his seven-month pregnant wife, aged 30. The alleged incidents occurred between November 2023 and December 2025, with Kharat reportedly using the pretext of performing spiritual rituals to carry out the assaults.
The complainant detailed that he was involved in grocery trade and land sale-purchase activities but struggled financially, leading him to join Kharat's property development office in Nashik city in 2019. He alleged that Kharat molested his wife under the guise of providing blessings for a healthy child. Upon learning of this, the complainant took proactive measures by installing a CCTV camera in Kharat's cabin to gather video evidence.
The collected evidence reportedly shows Kharat forcing women visiting his office to consume sedative-laced drinks as part of an Aghori ritual, incapacitating them, and then committing rape. When the complainant began confronting Kharat about these actions, he was fired from his job. Kharat later threatened the complainant and his family upon discovering the existence of the video evidence.
The complainant stated that he delayed approaching the police earlier due to fears over Kharat's alleged connections with senior politicians. However, after hearing of Kharat's arrest by the Nashik police, he decided to come forward and register a formal complaint.
Second New Case: Rape of Divorcee Under False Pretenses
The second case involves a complaint from another woman who accused Kharat of raping her at regular intervals between February 2020 and March of this year. According to the police, Kharat exploited her vulnerable state following marital discord and divorce, promising to secure her a bright future through spiritual means.
In a particularly distressing allegation, the woman claimed that when she informed Kharat of her pregnancy, he sedated her and terminated the pregnancy without her consent. This case highlights a pattern of alleged abuse where Kharat targeted individuals during times of personal crisis.
Legal Charges and Police Action
Based on the complaints, the Sarkarwada police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) against Ashokkumar Kharat for multiple offences. The charges include:
- Section 64(1) for rape
- Section 74 for assault or criminal force to a woman with intent to outrage her modesty
- Section 351(2) for criminal intimidation
- Sections 3(1) and 3(2) of the Maharashtra Prevention and Eradication of Human Sacrifice and other Inhuman, Evil and Aghori Practices and Black Magic Act, 2013
These legal actions underscore the severity of the allegations and the police's commitment to addressing crimes involving exploitation under the guise of spiritual practices. The investigation continues as authorities work to uncover further evidence and ensure justice for the victims.
