Opposition parties in Maharashtra, including Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT), have strongly urged for high-ranking officials and ministers who backed the Nashik-based self-proclaimed godman, Ashok Kharat, to be named as co-accused and face strict consequences. The demand was raised by Congress Legislative Party leader Vijay Wadettiwar in the state Assembly, emphasizing the need for the resignation of concerned ministers and officials. Wadettiwar highlighted the exploitation of women by Ashok Kharat and criticized the political and administrative protection given to such fraudulent individuals.
Speaker Rahul Narwekar denied the adjournment motion but permitted Wadettiwar to address the issue. Wadettiwar expressed concerns over the market of superstition in Maharashtra and the alleged support received by Ashok Kharat, who poses as a godly figure. He revealed that high-ranking officials reportedly held a meeting to prevent Kharat’s arrest, implicating IAS, IPS, and Revenue Department officers in the case. Wadettiwar stressed the necessity for the resignation of ministers and the suspension of involved officers.
Former Speaker Nana Patole and Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Bhaskar Jadhav also demanded stringent action against Ashok Kharat and his associates. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis assured that the government has initiated an investigation and pledged to take action against the fraudulent godman.
