Maharashtra Women's Commission Chief Steps Down Amid Black Magic Scandal
In a dramatic development that has rocked Maharashtra's political landscape, State Women's Commission chairperson Rupali Chakankar resigned from her position on Friday following explosive allegations linking her to black magic practices with astrologer Ashok Kharat, who stands accused of sexually assaulting multiple women in Nashik.
Political Leaders Level Serious Accusations
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sushma Andhare and NCP representative Rupali Thombare held separate press conferences where they made startling claims against Chakankar. Both politicians alleged that the women's commission chief was actively involved in black magic rituals alongside Kharat and had intimidated victims who considered filing complaints against the accused astrologer.
"Some victims revealed they received threatening phone calls late at night, warning them against pursuing legal action," stated Andhare during her media briefing. "Others claimed they faced direct pressure to remain silent about the crimes they had endured."
Andhare demanded that police immediately examine the call records of both Chakankar and Kharat to identify potential witnesses who might have been coerced into silence. She emphasized that such intimidation tactics could have prevented earlier exposure of the alleged sexual assaults.
Resignation Follows Chief Minister's Intervention
Sources within the administration confirmed that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis summoned Chakankar to his official residence on Friday evening and directed her to submit her resignation immediately. Following this meeting, Chakankar proceeded to meet Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar, who also serves as NCP chief, and formally tendered her resignation letter.
In her resignation addressed to CM Fadnavis, Chakankar stated, "I am resigning from the post voluntarily owing to personal reasons." She had held the prestigious position since October 2024 and continues to serve as head of the NCP women's wing despite stepping down from the commission leadership.
Photographic Evidence Sparks Controversy
The allegations gained traction after photographs surfaced on social media showing Chakankar in close association with Kharat. The images, which circulated hours after Chakankar initially denied any links to the astrologer, depicted her washing his feet, being fed by him, and holding an umbrella to shield him from sunlight.
In a previously recorded video that subsequently went viral, Chakankar had compared Kharat to Lord Vitthal, indicating a deep spiritual connection. Thombare revealed during her press conference that Chakankar had served as a member of a temple trust headed by Kharat, further cementing their association.
Victim Intimidation Allegations Surface
Thombare provided additional context about Chakankar's alleged interference in previous cases involving Kharat. "Approximately one year ago, Chakankar demanded a public apology from a local journalist who had reported on one of the astrologer's victims," Thombare disclosed. "As chairperson of the state women's commission, her responsibility should have been to investigate the matter thoroughly rather than targeting the reporter who brought it to light."
The NCP leader announced her intention to write formal letters to both Deputy CM Sunetra Pawar and CM Devendra Fadnavis, urging a comprehensive investigation into all allegations against Chakankar. She argued that without such interference, the crimes might have been exposed much earlier, potentially preventing further victimization.
Chakankar's Defense and Counterclaims
When finally available for comment, Chakankar offered her perspective on the controversy. "I have submitted my resignation to ensure a transparent investigation can proceed without any perception of bias," she told reporters. "My family regarded Kharat as a spiritual guide, and we participated in Guru Purnima ceremonies he conducted. We had absolutely no knowledge of the personal misconduct allegations against him."
Chakankar expressed shock upon learning about the sexual assault accusations, describing them as "wrong and terrible" while calling for an impartial police investigation. She acknowledged her previous association with Kharat's temple trust, where she served initially as Maharashtra chief and later as a member, but clarified that the trust's tenure concluded in August 2025.
"The photographs and videos circulating are from previous years," Chakankar explained. "During one Guru Purnima function, both my husband and I performed the ritual of washing Kharat's feet as a traditional gesture of respect toward a spiritual teacher."
Chakankar pointed out that the women's commission had taken prompt action regarding complaints against another member of Kharat's trust the previous year. She concluded by announcing her intention to file defamation cases against those she claims have made false allegations against her character and professional conduct.
Background of the Criminal Case
The controversy stems from the arrest of 67-year-old Ashok Kharat by Nashik city police on Wednesday. The arrest followed a formal complaint filed by a 28-year-old woman who accused Kharat of sexually assaulting her repeatedly between 2022 and 2025. The case has drawn significant public attention and raised questions about how individuals in positions of spiritual authority might exploit their influence.
Both Andhare and Thombare emphasized that black magic practices are explicitly prohibited under Maharashtra law and demanded Chakankar's arrest alongside Kharat if investigations substantiate the allegations. The political leaders stressed that such practices have no place in modern society, particularly when allegedly perpetrated by someone entrusted with protecting women's rights and welfare.
The resignation marks a significant development in what has become a multifaceted scandal involving spiritual exploitation, alleged intimidation of crime victims, and the intersection of political and religious influence in Maharashtra. As investigations proceed, all eyes remain on how authorities will address the serious allegations while ensuring justice for the victims of the alleged sexual assaults.
