As per government documents, administrative approval of Rs 1.05 crore was granted on March 31, 2018, for development works at the Shri Ishanyeshwar Devasthan temple in Sinnar, Nashik district
Ashok Kharat. File Pic
A temple associated with arrested self-styled godman Ashok Kharat received more than Rs 1 crore in government funding under a Maharashtra tourism scheme in 2018, according to official records, reported news agency PTI.
The development comes amid an ongoing investigation into serious criminal allegations against Kharat, including rape charges filed earlier this month.
Funds Approved Under Tourism Development Scheme
As per official documents, administrative approval of Rs 1.05 crore was granted on March 31, 2018, for development works at the Shri Ishanyeshwar Devasthan temple in Sinnar, Nashik district, reported PTI.
The funds were sanctioned under a regional tourism development scheme by the state’s tourism and cultural affairs department, which was then headed by Jaykumar Rawal.
Out of the total sanctioned amount, Rs 25 lakh was released during the 2017–18 financial year.
Infrastructure Development at Temple Site
The approved works included construction of a hall, installation of paving blocks, separate toilet facilities for men and women, changing rooms, parking space, accommodation for visitors, landscaping, and electrification, reported PTI.
Officials said the work was executed through the Public Works Department as part of standard infrastructure development, reported PTI.
Part of Larger Statewide Development Plan
The allocation was part of a broader government decision to approve projects worth around Rs 112 crore for the development of 58 religious sites and tourist locations across multiple districts in Maharashtra.
Around Rs 17 crore was released to executing agencies, including the Public Works Department and local administrative bodies, during that financial year.
Sources said the temple received the highest allocation among four projects from Nashik district under the scheme, reported PTI.
No Allegations at Time of Sanction
Officials clarified that funding for religious and tourism sites is a routine annual process and that there were no allegations against Kharat when the funds were approved in 2018, reported PTI.
They added that such decisions are based on development needs and tourism potential.
Multi-Agency Probe into Criminal and Financial Links
Kharat was arrested on March 18 after a 35-year-old woman accused him of repeated sexual assault over three years.
A Special Investigation Team led by Tejaswi Satpute is probing the case. Officials said at least six criminal cases have been registered so far.
Investigators have reportedly found around 100 objectionable videos and assets worth approximately Rs 1,500 crore linked to Kharat.
Authorities said the Income Tax Department is examining financial records and property holdings, while cyber police are analysing digital evidence, reported PTI.
The investigation is being monitored by Maharashtra Director General of Police Sadanand Date along with senior officials.
(With inputs from PTI)
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