SIT Widens Probe into Nashik “Godman” Ashok Kharat’s Family Assets Amid Escalating Allegations

Special Investigation Team expands probe into Nashik godman Ashok Kharat’s family properties as sexual exploitation case deepens and public scrutiny mounts.

Pune | 26 March, 2026: The investigation into self-styled godman Ashok Kharat has taken a significant turn as the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the high-profile Nashik case has expanded its focus to include family assets and immovable property holdings linked to the accused. Originally formed to investigate serious allegations including sexual assault, fraud and exploitation, the SIT’s widened mandate reflects growing efforts by law enforcement to map out potential financial irregularities and possibly illicit gains associated with Kharat and his close relatives.

According to officials, the SIT is now scrutinising property portfolios, land parcels, residential flats and commercial establishments registered in the names of Kharat and five family members. Investigators have obtained detailed records from the Inspector General of Registration to trace ownership patterns, financial links and the provenance of these assets. The probe is no longer confined to Nashik district but has extended across Maharashtra as authorities work to unravel what they describe as a complex web of financial dealings that may have benefited from alleged unlawful activities.

The SIT’s expanded focus comes amid mounting allegations that the 67-year-old astrologer—who claims spiritual expertise but is widely known as a godman—may have accumulated substantial wealth through deceptive and exploitative practices. Preliminary findings suggest that properties linked to Kharat could be part of a broader scheme to launder or shield assets derived from fraudulently induced donations, high-fee consultations and alleged psychological coercion of clients. Law enforcement sources say crucial documents have already been secured, and further data expected from the registration department may provide a clearer assessment of the total holdings involved.

Kharat’s arrest in mid-March followed a complaint by a woman alleging repeated sexual assault over several years under the guise of spiritual guidance and healing rituals. Since then, at least seven women have filed FIRs against him, with allegations ranging from sexual exploitation to psychological manipulation. The case has also revealed disturbing details about alleged fear-inducing tactics used to intimidate clients, including staged setups involving props, ritualistic elements and expensive “spiritual” products sold at exorbitant prices—a practice that reportedly helped him amass significant sums from wealthy patrons.

As the SIT continues to investigate, the probe into Kharat’s financial network has sparked broader public and political discourse over the intersection of religion, wealth and power. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has publicly urged anyone with relevant information to come forward and assist the investigation, describing misuse of influence as a grave offence that authorities are determined to address. This appeal underlines the seriousness with which the state government is treating the unfolding scandal.

The controversy has also generated political repercussions, with opposition leaders alleging historical connections between Kharat and influential figures across the state, and questioning past government allocations to institutions linked to him. Public outrage was further inflamed by revelations that state funds had previously been directed to development works at a temple associated with Kharat, prompting critics to call for enhanced scrutiny and accountability in public funding decisions.

Authorities have indicated that the SIT’s comprehensive report on the financial and property holdings under review will be submitted in the coming days. Depending on its conclusions, law enforcement may seek orders to freeze or seize assets suspected of being tied to unlawful activity, potentially adding a significant financial dimension to the already explosive legal case against Kharat. Such measures would mark a decisive escalation in efforts to hold the accused and his network accountable not only for alleged crimes against individuals but for wider systemic exploitation.

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