Nashik Court Extends Astrologer's Custody in Rape Case Amid Ongoing SIT Probe
The court of additional chief judicial magistrate MV Bharade in Nashik on Sunday extended the police custody remand of astrologer Ashok Kharat until April 1 in a rape case. This decision came after the investigating officer emphasized the necessity of an ongoing probe and the critical need to analyze a clone copy of Kharat's seized mobile phone in his presence by digital forensics experts.
Digital Evidence and Investigation Details
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) handling the case has successfully obtained a clone copy of Kharat's cellphone from the state forensic sciences laboratory. Assistant Public Prosecutor Shailendra Bagade informed the court that Kharat has shown minimal cooperation regarding key aspects under investigation. Bagade highlighted a significant possibility that Kharat may have saved important contact numbers under aliases, making verification of the cellphone data in his presence essential for the probe.
Additionally, Bagade revealed that investigators are actively working to identify all movable and immovable properties suspected to have been acquired by Kharat, either in his own name or through other individuals. This aspect of the investigation aims to uncover any illicit assets linked to the case.
Allegations and Forensic Inquiries
In a disturbing revelation, Bagade submitted to the court that Kharat allegedly administered salty and bitter water to his victim before the assault. This concoction reportedly made her light-headed, rendering her susceptible to his influence. Following this, Kharat would turn off the lights and commit the rape. The SIT is now tasked with investigating the source of this water and the substances mixed into it, as Kharat has so far remained silent on this matter during interrogations.
The probe also extends to identifying any potential accomplices who may have assisted Kharat in his alleged crimes. Meanwhile, senior SIT officials have chosen to remain tight-lipped about media reports suggesting that former chairperson of the state commission for women, Rupali Chakankar, was summoned for questioning in connection with the Shri Shivanika Sansthan Trust, a charitable organization founded by Kharat. Chakankar served as a trustee for the organization. A senior SIT officer stated, "There is nothing we have to say about such reports," maintaining a stance of confidentiality on the matter.
