The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has launched an extensive operation across Maharashtra against self-styled godman Ashok Kharat, conducting coordinated raids at multiple locations in connection with allegations of sexual exploitation, extortion, and large-scale financial irregularities. The कार्रवाई marks a significant escalation in the probe as authorities examine both criminal and financial aspects of the case.
Search operations under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) are being carried out at 11 locations linked to Kharat and his associates. These include five sites in Nashik, three in Pune, and three in Shirdi. The raids are covering residential and commercial premises, along with cooperative credit societies that are suspected to have been used as channels for routing illicit funds.
Kharat, who previously worked in the merchant navy and later presented himself as a spiritual healer, is accused of exploiting followers by invoking claims of supernatural or divine powers. Investigators allege that he manipulated and coerced women devotees, with some complaints stating that victims were drugged or psychologically influenced before being sexually assaulted. One of the complaints reportedly describes repeated abuse over a period of several years.
The allegations extend beyond sexual exploitation, with claims that he assaulted a pregnant woman and forced her to terminate her pregnancy. There are also accusations linking him to a murder case, further intensifying the seriousness of the investigation.
Financially, authorities suspect that Kharat operated a network of benami bank accounts using the identities of third parties while maintaining control through linked communication channels. He is alleged to have generated substantial income by selling ordinary items as “blessed” objects and through coercive practices, presenting them as solutions to personal or health-related issues.
Investigators believe that the proceeds from these activities were routed into land and property investments, allegedly with the assistance of his chartered accountant, Prakash Pophale, and close associates or family members. The use of cooperative credit societies is also under scrutiny as part of the suspected laundering mechanism.
The case originated from a Nashik Police investigation and has since expanded, with multiple women coming forward to report abuse under the pretext of religious rituals. Officials have indicated that the number of complainants may increase as more individuals come forward and evidence continues to be gathered.
The ongoing searches aim to uncover financial records, transaction trails, and other material that could establish the extent of the alleged network and support further legal action under anti-money laundering laws.
