NASHIK (Wednesday, April 8, 2026) — A Nashik district court has remanded self-styled godman Ashok Kharat to judicial custody until April 21, 2026, in connection with a second rape case. Kharat stands accused of sexually exploiting a woman on multiple occasions over a four-year period by utilizing the guise of religious rituals and spiritual healing.
Procedural Details: Video Conferencing for Security
The proceedings took place on Wednesday as Kharat’s initial police custody in the second case expired.
- The Hearing: Chief Judicial Magistrate B. N. Ichpurani presided over the matter.
- Security Protocol: Due to significant public outrage and potential security threats, Kharat was not produced in the courtroom physically. Instead, the court conducted the proceedings via video conference from the central jail.
- SIT Investigation: The Special Investigation Team (SIT), formed specifically to probe the mounting allegations against Kharat, informed the court that while the police interrogation phase for this specific case is complete, his detention is necessary to prevent tampering with witnesses.
The Allegations: Exploitation Since 2020
The second FIR against Kharat details a pattern of long-term abuse facilitated by his position of perceived spiritual authority.
| Detail | Information |
| Timeline | Alleged sexual exploitation occurred between 2020 and early 2026. |
| The Pretext | The victim alleged that Kharat claimed the sexual acts were part of “cleansing rituals” required for her spiritual and personal well-being. |
| Multiple Complaints | This is the second formal rape case registered against him; the first case involved similar allegations of exploiting a devotee’s faith. |
| SIT Focus | Investigators are currently mapping out the scale of Kharat’s operations and checking for other potential victims who may have been silenced by his influence. |
Legal Context and Background
Ashok Kharat’s arrest followed a series of protests by local activists and victims’ rights groups in Nashik. The SIT was established after preliminary evidence suggested that the “ashram” run by Kharat was being used as a front for organized exploitation.
- Charges: He has been booked under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for rape and criminal intimidation, as well as the Maharashtra Prevention and Eradication of Human Sacrifice and other Inhuman, Evil and Aghori Practices and Black Magic Act, 2013.
- Next Steps: The SIT is expected to file a comprehensive chargesheet before the 14-day judicial custody period expires, incorporating forensic evidence and statements recorded under Section 183 of the BNSS (formerly 164 CrPC).
Sources
- Press Trust of India (PTI): “‘Godman’ Kharat gets 14-day judicial custody in second rape case” (April 8, 2026).
- The Times of India: “Nashik: SIT produces self-styled godman Ashok Kharat via video link” (April 8, 2026).
- The Week: “Second rape case: Nashik court sends Ashok Kharat to judicial custody” (April 8, 2026).
- Official Statement: Public Relations Officer, Nashik City Police (April 8, 2026).
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