Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray has challenged the state government to take immediate action against “fraudulent godmen” following the arrest of Ashok Kharat, known as Bhondu Baba, on rape charges. The arrest of Kharat, who posed as a spiritual guru, has stirred controversy and a political uproar in the state. Thackeray, speaking at a press conference in Mumbai, urged for a thorough investigation beyond the individual to uncover any political connections supporting such fraudulent spiritual figures.
Thackeray criticized the intersection of politics and superstition in Maharashtra, mocking superstitious practices and calling for strict enforcement of anti-superstition laws by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. He highlighted the need to address the issue of fraudulent spiritual leaders being shielded by those in power, emphasizing the importance of upholding the law impartially. Thackeray also pointed out that controversies surrounding such figures are often used as distractions from more critical issues, citing specific scandals like the “Epstein Files”.
The Shiv Sena-UBT Chief took a firm stance on allegations that water facilities were provided to Kharat’s establishment during the previous government’s rule, challenging the state to conduct a comprehensive inquiry. Thackeray emphasized the need for accountability, urging for a thorough investigation into any potential misuse of resources and calling for decisive action against those found guilty. He underscored his party’s commitment to advancing Maharashtra through practical initiatives like logistics courses and industrial development, contrasting it with what he described as the current trend of resorting to superstitions and distractions in politics.
Thackeray concluded by suggesting the establishment of a “Ministry of Cover-ups” by Chief Minister Fadnavis, accusing the current administration of concealing the wrongdoings of leaders. He reiterated the importance of eliminating the influence of fraudulent spiritual leaders for Maharashtra to progress as a modern state.
