The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the rape accusations against Ashok Kharat, a self-styled godman, has received over 50 calls in the past five days. These calls provided information or reported crimes allegedly linked to him, officials said.
SIT received 50+ calls after accused arrested in Nashik Godman Rape Case
The Maharashtra government set up the SIT, which published two mobile phone numbers for citizens to share information or report any offenses involving Kharat. So far, police have registered eight FIRs against Kharat, who is based in Nashik. These complaints include allegations of sexual assault, extortion, and the spread of objectionable material.
Kharat runs a temple trust in Sinnar, Nashik district, and has hosted many political leaders over the years. He was arrested on March 18 after a 35-year-old woman accused him of repeatedly raping her over a three-year period. After his arrest, multiple other rape complaints surfaced.
Complaints against accused
A senior official noted that since launching the two dedicated phone lines, the investigation team has received an average of 15 to 20 calls each day. Out of the calls in the last five days, more than 50 were regarding complaints against Kharat. The team is currently verifying these complaints.
The SIT has promised to keep the identities of those providing information or reporting crimes strictly confidential. On Friday, March 27, the SIT visited Kharat’s office in Nashik with a forensic science team. Police officials collected several documents, files, a diary, and other papers from the office.
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