Nashik Court Remands Astrologer to Judicial Custody in Fourth Case
The court of Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) BN Ichpurani in Nashik on Saturday ordered the remand of astrologer Ashok Kharat to judicial custody. This decision pertains to the fourth case registered against him on March 23, where he faces serious allegations of sexual exploitation and the practice of black magic.
Virtual Court Proceedings and SIT Investigation
Kharat was produced before the court virtually, as the Special Investigation Team (SIT) continues its probe into the complaints filed with the Sarkarwada Police. During the hearing, the SIT formally requested the court for Kharat's arrest in a fifth case, which involves another woman's allegations of sexual assault and black magic.
Additional Public Prosecutor Shailendra Bagade appeared before the court and detailed the accusations made by several women. Based on these allegations, the SIT sought the court's permission to take Kharat into custody for further investigation.
Legal Charges and Sections Invoked
According to Bagade, the First Information Report (FIR) includes multiple sections under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Specifically, Section 64(1) for rape, Section 74 for the use of criminal force with intent to outrage modesty, and Section 351(2) for criminal intimidation have been invoked. Additionally, Kharat faces charges under Section 3(2) of the Maharashtra Prevention and Eradication of Human Sacrifice and Other Inhuman, Evil and Aghori Practices and Black Magic Act.
Police Statements and Future Proceedings
Police officials stated that Kharat would be arrested for the next case and produced before the court on Sunday to seek his remand. An officer explained, "Since every case is different, we would want to investigate every complaint for which we have requested the court to allow us to arrest him. After completing the formalities, we will produce him before the court again."
Overview of Complaints and SIT Role
In total, 15 complaints have been registered against Ashok Kharat. Of these, eight pertain to sexual exploitation, while the remaining involve charges under the Black Magic Act and cheating. The SIT, formed by the state government and headed by Tejaswi Satpute, is currently investigating 11 of these cases, underscoring the seriousness and scale of the allegations.
The ongoing legal proceedings highlight the rigorous efforts by authorities to address these grave accusations, ensuring a thorough investigation into each complaint to uphold justice and public safety.
