What began as a single complaint of abuse has now expanded into a major and deeply troubling scandal involving a self-styled godman in Nashik, with allegations ranging from sexual assault and rape to fraud and even suspected murder. As more victims step forward, investigators are uncovering what appears to be a long-running pattern of exploitation carried out under the guise of spiritual rituals.
The case first came to light when a pregnant woman alleged that she was sexually assaulted inside the godman’s private chamber during a so-called ritual meant to “protect” her unborn child. She claimed that after being isolated in a darkened room and instructed to follow ritualistic directions, the situation turned inappropriate and threatening. Managing to escape, she later shared her experience with her husband, which became the trigger for further revelations.
Initially sceptical, her husband reportedly installed a hidden camera inside the chamber. The footage he claims to have captured—and which investigators are now examining—allegedly shows multiple women being called in alone, appearing disoriented, and then subjected to inappropriate physical contact. Authorities have reportedly recovered over 100 such video clips, suggesting that the incidents may not have been isolated but part of a repeated and systematic pattern.
In a separate complaint, another woman has accused the godman of repeatedly raping her over several years. She stated that her association with him began when her family sought his help regarding personal issues, eventually placing their trust in him. According to her, he later used that trust to isolate her, manipulate her emotionally, and allegedly sexually assault her on multiple occasions. She also claimed that she was forced to consume substances and that a pregnancy resulting from the abuse ended in a miscarriage after she was given medication.
Alongside these allegations, claims of financial fraud have also emerged. A whistleblower alleged that ordinary items such as tamarind seeds were polished and sold as “energised gemstones” for large sums of money. Devotees were reportedly manipulated through fear-based tactics, including staged scenarios designed to appear supernatural, to extract money.
The investigation has further widened with the emergence of a land dispute case linked to the accused. A Nashik-based family has alleged that the godman used influence to take control of land they had intended to purchase. They have also raised suspicions over the death of a family member, which was officially recorded as an accident but is now being alleged as a planned act connected to the dispute.
The accused, Ashok Kumar Kharat, has been arrested in connection with the rape allegations and is currently being interrogated by a Special Investigation Team. Authorities are analysing digital evidence, including the alleged hidden camera footage, and believe more victims may come forward as the case progresses.
As the investigation continues, what is emerging is a complex case involving alleged abuse of trust, manipulation of faith, and possible criminal activities spanning several years.
