14 April,2026 09:06 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Anjali Damania
Activist Anjali Damania on Tuesday alleged links between a senior police officer and self-styled godman Ashok Kharat, currently under investigation in multiple criminal cases, including sexual assault and cheating.
The claims come amid an ongoing probe by state authorities and parallel investigations into alleged financial irregularities.
Damania alleged that Nashik Range Inspector General of Police Dattatray Karale had attended a public programme where Kharat was present and even addressed the gathering.
Questioning the officer's presence at such an event, she demanded a departmental vigilance inquiry. She also claimed that call records indicated multiple contacts linked to the accused.
Damania urged Director General of Police Sadanand Date to seek clarification on the matter. There was no immediate response from Karale despite attempts to contact him.
Kharat, who is currently in police custody, is facing several cases, including allegations of sexual assault and cheating. The Enforcement Directorate is also probing a suspected money laundering angle and has conducted searches at locations linked to the accused.
Authorities are examining financial transactions and related entities as part of the broader investigation.
Separately, Congress MP Praniti Shinde stirred controversy by suggesting the possibility of an "encounter" killing of the accused.
She claimed that as the investigation progresses, names of individuals linked to the ruling establishment in Maharashtra could emerge. Shinde also questioned the government's stance on women's safety in light of the case.
Reacting to the developments, Maharashtra Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule called for restraint, urging political leaders to avoid making speculative statements.
He said that individuals with information related to the case should cooperate with the Special Investigation Team rather than making public claims. Bawankule stressed the need for responsible conduct, especially in sensitive matters under investigation.
In a separate statement, Damania also raised questions about alleged financial links involving Pratibha Chakankar, sister of former Maharashtra State Women's Commission chairperson Rupali Chakankar.
She disputed claims regarding alleged fake accounts, citing call data records and communication exchanges over an extended period. Damania questioned how such interactions could be dismissed as fabricated.
Police officials confirmed that Pratibha Chakankar was questioned in connection with alleged use of her bank account by Kharat. Authorities are examining accounts held in her name and that of her son in a cooperative credit society as part of the probe.
The case has triggered a political storm in Maharashtra, with allegations, counter-allegations, and demands for accountability intensifying.
