Enforcement Directorate Intensifies Money Laundering Probe Against Controversial Godman in Nashik
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) executed fresh search operations on Friday at a premises in Maharashtra's Nashik district, escalating its ongoing money laundering investigation against self-styled godman Ashok Kharat and associated entities. Officials confirmed that the targeted location in Sharanpur town is linked to Kharat, with documents and computer peripherals currently under examination as part of the federal probe.
Background of the Case and Previous Actions
This latest raid follows an initial round of searches conducted on April 13, which covered residential and commercial properties connected to Kharat, his chartered accountant Prakash Pophale, his relatives, and several cooperative credit society branches. During those earlier operations, the agency seized Rs 42 lakh in cash and froze assets valued at approximately Rs 2.4 crore, though the ownership of these funds and assets remains under investigation.
The ED initiated a criminal case against Kharat under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) on April 6, based on a Nashik police FIR that accused him of serious charges including extortion, religious manipulation, and drug-facilitated assault on multiple women. In response to the allegations, the Maharashtra government has established a Special Investigation Team (SIT) comprising police officials to thoroughly probe Kharat's alleged criminal activities and financial dealings. To date, police have registered around a dozen FIRs against him.
Arrest and Allegations of Sexual Exploitation
Kharat was arrested by Nashik Police in March following accusations from a married woman who alleged he repeatedly raped her over a three-year period. He is currently incarcerated in Nashik jail. The police SIT has further alleged that Kharat sexually exploited women by falsely claiming to possess "divine powers," using threats of harm to family members or defamation to ensure compliance from his victims.
Financial Irregularities and Modus Operandi
ED officials revealed that Kharat opened multiple bank accounts in two cooperative credit societies in Nashik district under the names of third parties. He was designated as the "nominee" for these accounts and linked his mobile number to maintain control over their operations. Preliminary investigations indicate that Kharat sold ordinary items as "blessed" objects, fraudulently asserting they had divine healing powers. The funds accumulated from victims and through extortion activities were allegedly invested in various land holdings via his chartered accountant.
Political Controversy and Public Outcry
The case has sparked significant political controversy in Maharashtra, fueled by the widespread online circulation of photographs showing Kharat with prominent politicians and purported videos depicting his alleged criminal acts with women. These developments have drawn public attention to the broader implications of the investigation, highlighting concerns over financial crimes and exploitation.
With agency inputs providing additional context and details on the ongoing legal proceedings.
