Mumbai, March 31: A Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into self-styled godman and astrologer Ashok Kharat has uncovered a sprawling sexual exploitation racket, with investigators estimating that more than 150 women were exploited. According to a report from The New Indian Express, the SIT conducted a raid on Kharat’s Nashik office on Monday, March 30, seizing digital evidence that suggests a systematic abuse of power under the guise of spiritual and career guidance.

During the search of Kharat’s premises, officers confiscated two laptops and a mobile phone. Data retrieved from these devices allegedly confirms the scale of the exploitation, showing that Kharat targeted women by promising to resolve personal, financial, and professional issues. Cops have since sealed Kharat’s office and various properties, while his bank accounts have been frozen. Investigators are currently tracing his financial transactions to determine the flow of money associated with his operations. Who Is Ashok Kharat? Wife, Family and Background of the Nashik Astrologer Accused of S*xual Exploitation.

Modus Operandi: Hypnosis and Spiked Drinks

The investigation has shed light on the specific methods Kharat allegedly used to overpower his victims. Police reports indicate that the accused frequently contacted high-profile individuals using multiple mobile devices to maintain a layer of secrecy.

The SIT found evidence that Kharat allegedly spiked drinks and sweets offered to women during consultations. In some instances, victims were reportedly hypnotized before being sexually assaulted.

'Wife-Swapping' Claims

The case has triggered a significant political row in Maharashtra. Opposition leaders have alleged that former Shiv Sena minister Deepak Kesarkar used his position to assist Ashok Kharat’s brother, Dilip, in obtaining government approvals for educational institutions using fraudulent documents.

Maharashtra Congress Legislative Party leader Vijay Wadettiwar leveled grave allegations regarding the involvement of bureaucrats. Wadettiwar claimed that high-profile devotees, including government officers, would wait outside Kharat’s cabin while their wives were being assaulted inside. Another Congress leader, speaking to The New Indian Express, alleged that the network involved a "sex racket" that included wife-swapping among influential businessmen and politicians. Ashok Kharat Video Download Link Scam: How Scammers Are Using AI Deepfakes To Steal Data.

Ashok Kharat Case: Political Fallout and Response

Responding to the mounting criticism, Deepak Kesarkar denied exclusive ties to the astrologer, stating that approximately 30 to 35 MLAs across different parties were in contact with Kharat. Kesarkar claimed he is being unfairly targeted by the media and political opponents.

Congress leadership has called for a transparent probe, urging the SIT to ensure the case is not used for "political manipulations" but rather to expose the "rotten system" and provide justice to the victims.

Ashok Kharat Case Legal Status

Ashok Kharat remains in police custody. Following his latest appearance in court, his remand has been extended until April 1, 2026, as the SIT continues to process the vast amount of digital and physical evidence recovered from his properties.

TruLY Score by LatestLY
Rating:3

TruLY Score 3 – Believable; Needs Further Research | On a Trust Scale of 0-5 this article has scored 3 on LatestLY, this article appears believable but may need additional verification. It is based on reporting from news websites or verified journalists (The New Indian Express), but lacks supporting official confirmation. Readers are advised to treat the information as credible but continue to follow up for updates or confirmations

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 31, 2026 12:11 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).