The Maharashtra government has constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe serious allegations of sexual abuse against self-styled godman Ashok Kharat, popularly known as “Captain.” The investigation has now widened to include scrutiny of his financial assets, which are estimated to be worth around Rs 200 crore.
The SIT is being led by IPS officer Tejaswini Satpute, who has already begun questioning key individuals connected to the case. Kharat himself was interrogated for nearly two hours on Thursday, although officials have not disclosed specific details from the questioning.
Extortion Complaint Adds New Dimension
The case took a significant turn after an extortion complaint was filed in Shirdi. A woman alleged that she was threatened with the release of her private photos and videos unless she paid a sum of money.
According to her complaint, she received objectionable images from an unknown number, which left her shocked and distressed. She further stated that the accused individual was employed at Kharat’s office in Nashik and that she had visited the office a few years earlier.
The complaint was officially registered on February 18, 2026. The accused, identified as Neeraj Jadhav, is currently absconding, and efforts are underway to apprehend him.
Investigators are trying to determine whether Jadhav acted independently or under Kharat’s direction. Officials have indicated that more clarity will emerge once he is taken into custody.
Seizures During Raid Raise Questions
During a search operation at Kharat’s residence conducted by the Nashik Crime Branch, authorities recovered a firearm, ammunition, and cash amounting to Rs 6.5 lakh. These findings have further intensified the investigation and raised concerns about potential illegal activities.
Officials are now closely examining the origins of Kharat’s wealth, accumulated over the past 15 years, as part of a broader probe into financial irregularities.
| Asset Type | Location | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Land Holdings | Pathardi village, Nashik (30 acres) | ~ Rs 150 crore |
| Land Holdings | Sinnar Taluka (45 acres) | ~ Rs 2 crore |
| Temple Property | Near Ishaneshwar shrine, Sinnar | ~ Rs 10 crore |
| Office Space | Canada Corner, Nashik | ~ Rs 1 crore |
| Bungalow | Karmayogi Nagar | ~ Rs 5 crore |
| Land Parcel | Janori village near Ozar Airport | ~ Rs 5 crore |
| Agricultural Land | Shirdi region | Worth several crores |
Properties Registered in Family Members’ Names
Investigators have also discovered that multiple land purchase deeds worth over Rs 30 crore have been registered in the names of Kharat’s family members, including his wife Kalpana, daughter Srishti, and other relatives.
These transactions, spread across areas such as Pathardi and Gaulane in Nashik, are being examined to identify any irregularities or attempts to conceal ownership.
Additionally, authorities are reviewing income generated through a temple trust associated with Kharat. The trust reportedly earns around Rs 2 crore annually, further adding to the financial complexity of the case.
Focus on Financial Trail and Network
The SIT is now focusing on uncovering the financial trail behind Kharat’s assets and identifying any larger network that may be involved. Investigators are examining links between the alleged sexual abuse case, extortion complaint, and the accumulation of wealth.
Officials have stated that the probe remains ongoing, and further developments are expected as more evidence is gathered and key suspects are brought in for questioning.
The case has drawn significant public attention, highlighting concerns over abuse of influence, financial misconduct, and the need for stricter oversight in cases involving self-proclaimed spiritual figures.
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