On Wednesday, Kharat, a 67-year-old self-styled godman and astrologer from Nashik, was arrested by police for allegedly sexually assaulting a woman. Meanwhile, Rupali Chakankar denied the allegations against her, expressing confidence in a fair police investigation
Maharashtra State Women’s Commission Chairperson Rupali Chakankar. FILE PIC
The opposition has stepped up its attack on the ruling Mahayuti government, demanding the resignation and arrest of State Women’s Commission Chairperson Rupali Chakankar over her alleged links to retired naval officer-turned-godman Ashok Kharat.
On Wednesday, Kharat, a 67-year-old self-styled godman and astrologer from Nashik, was arrested by police for allegedly sexually assaulting a woman.
Shiv Sena (UBT) demands Rupali Chakankar’s arrest
Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) leader Sushma Andhare on Friday demanded that Chakankar be arrested and an inquiry be initiated against her in connection with the case.
“Police should arrest Chakankar and conduct a detailed probe to find more details in the case,” Andhare said.
Calls within NCP for action
Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Rupali Thombre Patil said that on moral grounds, Chakankar should step down from the post.
Senior NCP leader Praful Patel said that action would be taken within the next two days if the allegations are found to be correct.
Social activist urges action
Social activist Anjali Damania urged the state government to take immediate action against Chakankar. She said Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar, being a woman, should understand the survivor’s pain and ensure that the State Women’s Commission Chairperson steps down without delay.
Politicians across parties visited Kharat
Pictures of political leaders from various parties visiting Kharat have surfaced and are being circulated on social media.
SIT formed to probe case
The state government has formed a special investigation team (SIT), headed by Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Tejaswini Satpute, to probe the case.
State women's panel chief denies allegations
Meanwhile, Chakankar has denied the allegations against her.
“As regards the current allegations, I am confident that the police will conduct a fair and impartial investigation. I have full faith in the police inquiry,” she wrote earlier this week.
शिवनिका संस्थान ट्रस्ट हे महादेव देवस्थानचे ट्रस्ट असून काहीवेळा तिथे सामाजिक कार्यक्रम साजरे होतात, त्यामुळे सामाजिक कामांच्या निमित्ताने आम्ही अनेक जण ट्रस्टच्या कामाशी जोडले गेले होतो.ज्यात समाजातील अनेक प्रतिष्ठित व्यक्ती आहेत.कॅप्टन खरात यांच्या वैयक्तिक आयुष्य किंवा…
— Rupali Chakankar (@ChakankarSpeaks) March 18, 2026
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
