A shocking scandal from Maharashtra has triggered widespread outrage after an astrologer, once respected as a spiritual guide, was accused of sexually exploiting several women. The man at the center of the controversy, Ashok Kharat, is currently in police custody while investigators examine disturbing allegations that continue to surface.
Kharat’s journey to becoming a controversial figure began long before the accusations. He reportedly spent around 22 years working as a captain in the Merchant Navy. In 2010, he returned to India and settled in Maharashtra, where he purchased nearly 20 acres of land. On this land, he built a temple that gradually attracted devotees and local attention.
Over time, the temple received financial support from donations and public contributions. Reports also suggest that the Maharashtra government provided around ₹1.25 crore for the temple’s development. Kharat’s influence increased further when prominent political leaders visited the temple, including former Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Such visits reportedly enhanced his public image and helped expand his network of followers.
As his reputation grew, Kharat opened an office called “Ox Properties.” From this location, he began offering astrology consultations and spiritual guidance to people seeking solutions to personal or family problems. According to investigators, many visitors approached him believing he had the power to remove obstacles from their lives through special rituals and prayers.
Police allege that Kharat used these consultations as a means to manipulate and exploit women who sought his help. Under the pretext of performing rituals to solve personal issues or remove negative energies, he allegedly pressured women into inappropriate situations. Authorities claim that CCTV cameras were installed inside the office, and several encounters were recorded without the women’s knowledge.
The case first came to light on March 17 when a woman filed a rape complaint against Kharat. During the investigation, police reportedly recovered more than 50 explicit video recordings. Officials say each video allegedly features a different woman, raising serious concerns about the scale of the alleged exploitation.
Investigators are now examining the recordings to identify victims and determine whether any of the footage was used to intimidate or blackmail women. Police sources say additional women have begun approaching authorities after learning about the case through media reports.
The controversy intensified after the name of Rupali Chakankar surfaced in connection with the temple trust linked to Kharat. Reports indicate that Chakankar was listed as a member of the trust and had visited the astrologer’s office in the past to seek blessings. While no criminal charges have been announced against her in relation to the case, the revelation has triggered political reactions and public scrutiny.
As of April 1, Ashok Kharat remains in police custody while investigators continue questioning him. Authorities are also reviewing financial records related to the temple and trust to determine whether any irregularities occurred alongside the alleged crimes.
Meanwhile, the number of complaints connected to the case is reportedly increasing. Police officials say they are encouraging potential victims to come forward so the full extent of the case can be uncovered.
The scandal has sparked a wider conversation about the growing influence of self-proclaimed spiritual figures and the dangers of blind faith. Many social activists and women’s rights groups have called for stricter oversight of religious institutions and stronger legal protection for victims who report abuse.
Key highlights of the case include the arrest of astrologer Ashok Kharat after a rape complaint filed on March 17, the recovery of more than 50 alleged explicit videos from his office, and the emergence of multiple victims who are now approaching the police. The investigation also brought attention to the temple trust associated with Kharat and its links to prominent figures. Authorities say the probe is ongoing and further revelations could emerge as more evidence is examined.