What observers say
“It was not an accident,” asserted Vilas Jadhav, whose family has become embroiled in a complex web of allegations against Nashik astrologer Ashok Kharat. This statement underscores the gravity of the situation, which has escalated into accusations of sexual abuse, financial fraud, and even a suspected murder linked to a land dispute.
The case against Kharat has taken a more serious turn with fresh allegations from the Jadhav family. Reports indicate that Kharat used plastic snakes and tiger skins to intimidate his victims, a tactic that raises questions about his methods and the psychological impact on those he targeted. The police have filed two additional FIRs for rape against Kharat, highlighting the growing number of accusations against him.
Among the most disturbing allegations is that of a seven-month pregnant woman who accused Kharat of sexually assaulting her during a ritual. This incident, along with claims from another woman who alleges Kharat raped her multiple times between 2020 and 2026, paints a troubling picture of the astrologer’s activities. Over 100 video clips have been recovered, purportedly showing instances of abuse, further complicating Kharat’s defense.
Financially, Kharat is accused of duping individuals by selling ordinary tamarind seeds as ‘energised gemstones,’ a fraudulent practice that has drawn the ire of many in the community. The Jadhav family, in particular, has alleged that Kharat illegally seized land from Vilas’s brother, a claim that has led to further scrutiny of Kharat’s dealings.
Tragically, the situation took a darker turn when Kailash Jadhav, Vilas’s brother, died just two days before a scheduled court hearing related to the land dispute. The Jadhav family has expressed suspicions regarding the circumstances of his death, claiming it was staged and not an accident, which adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing investigation.
As the Special Investigation Team (SIT) continues to question Kharat, the community watches closely. The allegations have sparked outrage and concern, with many demanding justice for the victims. The Jadhav family’s claims, coupled with the evidence collected, have prompted a thorough investigation into Kharat’s practices and the extent of his alleged crimes.
Details remain unconfirmed, but the unfolding narrative surrounding Ashok Kharat serves as a stark reminder of the potential for abuse within positions of power and the importance of accountability. As the investigation progresses, the public awaits further developments in this troubling case.
