Activist Raises Alarms Over Death of ED-Questioned Trust Official in Astrologer Probe
In a development that has sparked serious concerns, activist Anjali Damania has raised suspicions regarding the death of Jitendra Shelke, who died in a road accident. Shelke was recently questioned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) during searches at the office of a trust managed by prominent astrologer Ashok Kharat.
Damania Calls for Investigation into Shelke's Death
Anjali Damania emphasized that Shelke held a senior position in the trust, suggesting he had access to critical information. "Shelke was recently raided by ED, and his death in a road accident now raises serious suspicions that warrant investigation," Damania stated. She highlighted that his passing occurred shortly after the ED's interrogation, adding to the urgency for a thorough probe.
ED's Ongoing Searches and Financial Investigation
The ED has been actively investigating the financial transactions of Ashok Kharat, his trusts, and close associates. On Friday, the agency conducted another search at one of Kharat's offices, which had previously been sealed by police in a separate case against him. This search was part of a broader effort to uncover illicit activities.
During recent operations, the ED covered two credit societies where Kharat allegedly opened benami accounts fraudulently by using others' KYC documents. The agency made significant recoveries, including:
- Rs 42 lakh in cash
- Frozen bank balances worth Rs 2.4 crore
- A Mercedes car linked to the astrologer
- Approximately 90 property documents valued at several crores, with details being examined
Shelke's Role and Denials in the Trust
Jitendra Shelke reportedly denied any knowledge of the trust's financial transactions during the ED's questioning. He claimed that such matters, along with other affairs, were handled by Ashok Kharat and his wife Kalpana. Despite this, his senior position in the trust made him a key figure in the investigation, raising questions about the circumstances of his death.
The ED's probe continues to focus on unraveling the complex financial web surrounding Kharat and his associates, with Shelke's death adding a new layer of intrigue and concern.
