Nashik Court Remands Astrologer Ashok Kharat in Police Custody in Second Rape Case
The court of Chief Judicial Magistrate B N Ichpurani in Nashik has ordered the remand of astrologer Ashok Kharat in police custody until April 8, 2024, in connection with a second case of rape. This decision comes as part of an ongoing investigation by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by IPS officer Tejaswi Satpute, which is handling a total of 11 criminal cases against Kharat, including seven related to rape and offences under the Black Magic Act.
Video-Conferencing Used to Manage Courtroom Security
To address security concerns arising from heavy crowds of lawyers and locals attempting to enter the courtroom, the SIT produced Kharat through video-conferencing mode. This logistical measure was implemented due to the significant public interest generated by the multiple cases against the astrologer, ensuring a smoother judicial process without compromising safety.
Details of the Second Case and Police Investigation
In the second case, the survivor filed a complaint on March 21, 2024, accusing Kharat of sexually exploiting her between 2020 and 2026. She alleged that he provided her with pills to abort her child after she became pregnant. The prosecution informed the court that the police need to establish the source from where Kharat procured sedative materials and herbs, as well as identify the people he was in contact with to secure these items.
Assistant Public Prosecutor Shailendra Bagade elaborated on the case, stating, "In this instance, the woman—a divorcee—had approached Kharat seeking guidance for personal hardships. He gave her a substance to drink, engaged in a physical relationship with her, and threatened that both her sons would die and her future would be dark if she did not cooperate. We are investigating these serious allegations thoroughly."
Bagade further emphasized the investigative priorities: "We have requested police custody to probe the rape allegations and determine what pills were administered for abortion. Additionally, we aim to trace the origins of the sedative materials and herbs used by Kharat, and his contacts in procuring them."
Additional Financial Aspects Under Scrutiny
The SIT's remand report also highlighted that police are investigating why Kharat took possession of the survivor's and her family members' PAN cards. Authorities are examining whether he utilized these documents for personal gain, such as purchasing items or property, adding a financial dimension to the case.
Defense Opposition to Police Custody
Defense advocate Sachin Bhate opposed the police custody plea, arguing that the reasons cited were similar to those in the first case. Bhate stated, "The police have not presented fresh grounds for remand in this second case. There is no specific information regarding the timing of the alleged impregnation or abortion, and possibilities such as miscarriage have not been ruled out. Therefore, the court should reconsider granting police custody."
Despite this opposition, the court proceeded with the remand, underscoring the gravity of the allegations and the need for a comprehensive investigation into Kharat's activities. The SIT continues to work on unraveling the complexities of these cases, with Kharat currently held at Nashik Road Central Prison after being taken into custody on an arrest warrant related to the second case.
