Rohit Pawar Calls for Investigation into Alleged Black Magic Near Ajit Pawar's Residences
In a significant development within Maharashtra's political landscape, NCP (SP) leader and MLA Rohit Pawar has formally demanded a comprehensive investigation into reports of alleged black magic rituals conducted near the residences of his late uncle, former deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar. The call for action follows disturbing claims raised by party colleague Amol Mitkari on social media platform X.
Disturbing Allegations Surface
Rohit Pawar, who represents the Karjat-Jamkhed constituency, cited Mitkari's statements detailing alleged occult practices that reportedly occurred in November 2025 at two key locations: outside Ajit Pawar's residence in Sahyog Society on Bhigwan Road in Pune district, and near the Devgiri bungalow in Mumbai. The rituals were allegedly connected to a self-proclaimed astrologer from Nashik.
"In a progressive state like Maharashtra, there is no place for superstition or such fraudulent practices," Pawar asserted. "Yet, the information coming to light makes the matter appear extremely serious and warrants immediate official attention."
Political Motives Questioned
The MLA emphasized the need to identify not only those who performed these alleged acts but also the individuals who commissioned them, along with their potential political motivations. This demand comes against the backdrop of Ajit Pawar's tragic death in a plane crash on January 28, 2026, along with four others in Baramati.
Mitkari's original social media post raised pointed questions about the timing and circumstances surrounding these alleged rituals. He specifically mentioned a purported connection to 'Shivlika Ashram,' run by self-described astrologer Ashokkumar Kharat, whom he labeled a "fraudulent godman."
Astrologer's Arrest Adds Complexity
The situation gained additional complexity with the recent arrest of Kharat, a retired Merchant Navy officer turned astrologer, in Nashik on Wednesday. He was taken into custody for allegedly raping a woman over a three-year period and has been remanded to police custody until March 24.
Mitkari's inquiry extended to questioning why Ajit Pawar opted for air travel on January 28 via a VSR-operated plane, despite having scheduled road travel to Pune for January 27. He sought clarification on "whose advice prompted this change in travel plans" and whether any close associates of the late deputy chief minister were followers of Kharat.
Broader Implications for Maharashtra Politics
This controversy emerges at a sensitive time in Maharashtra politics, following the untimely demise of a prominent political figure. Rohit Pawar's demand for a probe underscores concerns about the intersection of superstition, political maneuvering, and public accountability in the state's governance.
The call for investigation highlights ongoing tensions within political circles and raises fundamental questions about the influence of external actors on decision-making processes at the highest levels of state administration.
