SIT Flooded with Complaints Against Arrested Astrologer Ashok Kharat
The Special Investigating Team (SIT) handling the high-profile cases against astrologer Ashok Kharat has been inundated with distress calls over the past two to three days. Senior officers confirmed that the dedicated helpline numbers have received over 100 calls from individuals claiming to be victims of Kharat's alleged crimes or their concerned relatives.
Pattern of Allegations Emerges
According to a senior SIT officer, at least 15 of these callers were women or their family members who reported incidents of sexual harassment or obscene acts. These acts were allegedly committed by Kharat under the guise of providing remedies for various personal issues, including health problems, financial troubles, and other life challenges. The remaining callers primarily accused him of financial cheating through fraudulent schemes.
Many callers identified the arrested individual as 'Capt' Ashokkumar Eknath Kharat, adding a layer of specificity to the mounting allegations. Kharat, a Nashik-based astrologer, was initially arrested on March 18 in connection with a rape case, but the scope of investigations has since expanded significantly with multiple additional cases registered against him.
Geographic Spread and Modus Operandi
The SIT officers revealed that complaints have poured in from various regions, including Nashik, Pune, Ahilyanagar, Konkan, and Mumbai. Victims narrated disturbing experiences where they were either sexually exploited or financially defrauded. A particularly egregious pattern involved Kharat allegedly selling low-value items at astronomical prices.
- One victim reported purchasing a gemstone worth merely Rs 50 for a staggering Rs 2 lakh, based on Kharat's claims of its healing properties.
- Another caller disclosed paying over Rs 1 lakh in cash, only to receive a tamarind seed as a supposed blessing from the astrologer.
These revelations came to light after news of Kharat's arrest became public, prompting victims to verify the authenticity of the items they had purchased.
Official Response and Investigation Progress
The SIT had proactively released two helpline numbers—9503270224 and 7775816389—on March 23, encouraging people to come forward with complaints. "We anticipate more calls in the coming days as awareness spreads," stated another SIT officer, highlighting the ongoing nature of the investigation.
Officials have meticulously recorded details from all callers and urged them to visit the SIT office in Nashik to submit formal statements. "This will significantly strengthen our investigation against Kharat and help us identify additional victims to ensure justice is served," the officer emphasized.
The SIT plans to thoroughly examine all submitted statements. Genuine claims will be incorporated into existing First Information Reports (FIRs), and if necessary, separate FIRs will be registered to address specific incidents.
Political and Institutional Repercussions
Kharat's arrest has triggered broader consequences beyond the criminal investigation. He was involved in constructing the Shree Ishaneshwar temple at Mirgaon village in Sinnar, Nashik district, under the banner of Sri Shivnika Sansthan. In response to his arrest, Water Resources Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil ordered an immediate review and potential cancellation of a 2020 order that granted bulk water to Shri Shivanika Sansthan, demonstrating the case's impact on governmental decisions.
As the SIT continues its diligent work, the case against Ashok Kharat underscores serious concerns about exploitation under the pretext of spiritual guidance, with authorities committed to uncovering the full extent of these alleged crimes.
