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Self styled godman Ashok Kharat rape case in Nashik sparks political storm, SIT probes if Womens Commission under Rupali Chakankar interfered, she resigns amid opposition attacks
File photo of Renuka Chakankar. (X @ChakankarSpeaks)
The arrest of self-styled godman Ashok Kharat in Nashik has opened up multiple layers of alleged criminal activity, raising questions not just about his actions but also about how he evaded the law for so long.
What is now emerging is not just a criminal investigation but a case with possible political overtones, with the role of Maharashtra State Women’s Commission chief Rupali Chakankar coming under scrutiny.
Case Takes Political Turn As Questions Mount
Investigators are now examining whether political influence may have indirectly shielded the accused. The development came after the SIT flagged the involvement of the Women’s Commission, raising concerns over possible interference.
The case has become political, with opposition leaders targeting the government and questioning institutional accountability.
What SIT Probe Has Found
According to the SIT, the Women’s Commission issued multiple notices to the police and scheduled hearings in the case, even as the investigation was underway.
These actions are now being examined to assess whether they may have impacted the course of the probe.
What Triggered The Controversy
The issue traces back to a rape case registered in February at the Shirdi police station, where a woman accused Ashok Kharat of sexual assault.
Following the complaint, the Women’s Commission reportedly took suo motu cognisance, issued notices to the police, and asked the complainant to appear before it on March 17.
However, by that time, the case had already been handed over to the SIT, raising questions about overlapping jurisdictions and procedural lapses.
Further, the SIT found that the Commission had sent additional communications to the police on March 5 and March 9 regarding case progress and hearings.
What Are The Allegations Against Rupali Chakankar?
There are no direct allegations linking Chakankar to any crime. However, questions have been raised over whether the Commission, under her leadership, overstepped its mandate by intervening while the SIT was already probing the case.
Investigators are examining whether the Commission could have indirectly benefited the accused or influenced the investigation.
Political Fallout
The developments have triggered political backlash, with the opposition stepping up attacks on the government. Chakankar has resigned from her post, indicating the sensitivity and seriousness of the issue.
What Next?
The SIT is now probing whether any pressure or influence was exerted on the investigation.
If established, the case could go beyond individual accountability and raise broader concerns about institutional integrity.
More disclosures are expected as the probe progresses.
March 31, 2026, 12:11 IST
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