Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has addressed the latest developments in the high-profile Nashik Godman Ashok Kharat case, stating that he currently has no specific information regarding any summons issued to Rupali Chakankar. He clarified that he is also unaware of the present status of the investigation but assured that the probe is being carried out in an impartial manner. Emphasising due process, Fadnavis said such case-related updates are not reviewed on a daily basis and will only be shared when necessary, adding that authorities will provide information at an appropriate stage as the inquiry progresses.
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis said, "I currently have no information about what summons have been issued to Rupali Chakankar in the Ashok Kharat case. I also do not know the current status of this case. The investigation is ongoing and is being conducted impartially. Information about such cases is not taken on a daily basis; it is taken only when necessary. Therefore, the inquiry is underway, and information will be given at the appropriate time."
Meanwhile, the case involving self-styled godman Ashok Kharat has taken a significant turn, with reports indicating that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) has issued summons to Rupali Chakankar, potentially increasing her legal troubles. Sources further revealed that all current and former members associated with the Shivanika organisation will be questioned as part of the expanding probe. The SIT is expected to call multiple individuals for interrogation, and the organisation’s financial and operational dealings have now come under scrutiny, suggesting a wider investigation into the network linked to Kharat.
The case has triggered widespread outrage across Maharashtra after multiple allegations of sexual exploitation surfaced against Kharat. So far, at least eight women have filed complaints accusing him of abuse, and more victims are reportedly coming forward. A court in Nashik has extended Kharat’s police custody until April 1, granting investigators additional time to probe serious charges including sexual assault and financial fraud. The extension came after police requested more time, arguing that the complexity of the case required deeper investigation.
Kharat was produced before the court at around 11:30 am, where the matter was heard in the court of Judge M. V. Bharade. During the hearing, SIT investigating officer Kiran Suryawanshi and public prosecutor Shailendra Bagde sought an extension of three days in police custody. The prosecution argued that the accused has not been cooperating with the investigation and may have stored several contacts in his mobile phone under dummy names or coded identities, possibly including political figures. They also highlighted the need to investigate substances allegedly given to victims, which could be crucial to uncovering the full extent of the crimes.