What observers say
“It was not an accident,” declared Vilas Jadhav, shedding light on the dark circumstances surrounding the case against Nashik astrologer Ashok Kharat. This statement underscores the gravity of the allegations that have emerged, which now encompass sexual abuse, financial fraud, and a suspected murder linked to a land dispute.
The case has escalated significantly, with police filing two more FIRs against Kharat. Among the most troubling accusations is that of a seven-month pregnant woman who claims Kharat sexually assaulted her during a ritual. This incident is just one of many, as over 100 video clips have been recovered, allegedly showing Kharat engaging in abusive behavior.
Further complicating the situation, another woman has accused Kharat of raping her multiple times between 2020 and 2026. The timeline of these alleged assaults coincides with the survivor’s association with Kharat, which began in 2013, and continued until her divorce in 2021. The survivor’s claims have raised serious concerns about Kharat’s practices, including allegations that he sold ordinary tamarind seeds as ‘energised gemstones’.
The Jadhav family has also brought forth serious allegations against Kharat, claiming he illegally seized land from Vilas Jadhav’s brother, Kailash Jadhav. Tragically, Kailash died just two days before a scheduled court hearing regarding this land dispute, leading the family to assert that his death was staged and not an accident. This assertion adds another layer of complexity to the already troubling narrative surrounding Kharat.
As the investigation unfolds, Kharat is currently being questioned by a Special Investigation Team (SIT). The police are delving deeper into the allegations, which now include a financial aspect, with claims that Kharat defrauded individuals out of significant sums. The amount related to the land purchase in question is reported to be around 45 lakh rupees.
The case has taken a more serious turn with fresh allegations from the Jadhav family, raising questions about Kharat’s influence and the extent of his alleged misconduct. Observers are closely monitoring the developments as more victims come forward, and the investigation continues to gather momentum.
Details remain unconfirmed, but the implications of this case are profound, not only for the victims but also for the broader community in Nashik. As the situation develops, the public awaits further revelations regarding Ashok Kharat’s actions and the potential consequences he may face.
