Nashik Astrologer's Custodial Remand Extended in Fifth Sexual Assault Case
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing multiple cases of sexual assault and black magic against astrologer Ashok Kharat has secured his custodial remand until April 23 in connection with a fifth case registered at the Sarkarwada police station in Nashik. This development marks a significant escalation in the ongoing investigation into the alleged crimes.
Court Proceedings and Prosecution's Arguments
Kharat was produced before a magistrate via video conferencing on Sunday, where Assistant Public Prosecutor Shailendra Bagade presented the prosecution's case. Bagade emphasized that the fresh case involves serious offences, necessitating further custodial interrogation to uncover critical details. The court, accepting the prosecution's plea, granted a four-day custodial remand, underscoring the gravity of the allegations.
Kharat has been under arrest since March 17, following the registration of the first complaint. The fifth case pertains to offences under sections 64(1) (rape), 64(2)(m) (repeated rape on the same woman), 75 (sexual harassment), and 351(2) (criminal intimidation) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Additionally, it includes relevant provisions of the Maharashtra Prevention and Eradication of Human Sacrifice and other Inhuman, Evil and Aghori Practices and Black Magic Act, 2013.
Details of the Allegations
The FIR was registered on March 23, with the alleged incidents occurring at Kharat's office in the Canada Corner area of Nashik city. According to the complainant, Kharat raped her repeatedly between April 2024 and December 2025. She detailed that Kharat would call her to his office, make her consume a sweet, and then sexually assault her, claiming he possessed divine powers and was "purifying" her.
Further, she alleged that Kharat threatened her, stating her children would meet a grim fate, including death by snakebite, if she resisted. These accusations highlight the manipulative and coercive tactics allegedly employed by Kharat under the guise of spiritual practices.
Investigation Priorities and Defence Claims
APP Bagade noted that the investigation is at a crucial early stage, with the SIT needing to examine several key aspects. These include determining what the sweets were allegedly laced with, probing whether Kharat carried out other illegal activities under the guise of religious practices, and ascertaining if he had any accomplices. The focus on these elements aims to build a comprehensive case against the accused.
During the hearing, the defence sought a neurological examination for Kharat, claiming that painkillers prescribed for his shoulder pain were ineffective. The court permitted a neurologist to examine him during his routine medical check-up, balancing legal procedures with health considerations.
Broader Implications and Legal Context
This case underscores the severe legal ramifications under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Maharashtra Black Magic Act, reflecting a crackdown on crimes disguised as religious or spiritual activities. The extension of custodial remand allows the SIT to delve deeper into the evidence, potentially uncovering more victims or accomplices.
As the investigation progresses, authorities are committed to ensuring justice for the victims while upholding the rule of law in Nashik and beyond.
