Pune: Kharat Case Sparks Row; NCP Leader Seeks Women’s Commission Chief’s Resignation

Pune, 19th March 2026: A political storm has intensified in Maharashtra over the handling of allegations against self-styled godman Ashok Kharat, with Nationalist Congress Party (Ajit Pawar faction) leader Rupali Thombre Patil calling for the resignation of the State Women’s Commission Chairperson, Rupali Chakankar, citing concerns about the fairness of the ongoing probe.

Speaking to the media, Thombre Patil alleged that an impartial investigation would not be possible as long as Chakankar continues in office. She claimed that the Chairperson’s position could influence the course of the inquiry and even lead to possible tampering with evidence.

Raising serious allegations, Thombre Patil accused Chakankar of having protected Kharat, which she said may have emboldened him. She demanded that Chakankar be named as a co-accused in the case and sought registration of criminal offences against all individuals allegedly connected to the matter.

Questioning whether political backing played a role, Thombre Patil stressed the need for a comprehensive and independent investigation. She remarked that such incidents raise doubts about whether the accused acted with a sense of impunity.

Referring to the scale of the controversy, she claimed that multiple video clips linked to Kharat have surfaced, numbering as many as 58, indicating the gravity of the allegations. She further stated that earlier intervention by the Women’s Commission could have prevented more women from allegedly becoming victims.

Demanding transparency, Thombre Patil urged police authorities to make all related video evidence public through the media. She also called upon the Chief Minister to either seek Chakankar’s resignation or remove her from the post to ensure an unbiased probe, arguing that her constitutional position necessitates greater accountability.

In addition, she pressed for legal action under provisions related to black magic and fraudulent spiritual practices. Warning of a statewide agitation, she said any attempt to suppress the case could lead to widespread protests across Maharashtra.

Describing the issue as transcending politics, Thombre Patil emphasized that it concerns women’s safety and dignity. She also alleged that a local publication that initially reported on the case was pressured into issuing an apology, which she claimed raised further questions about attempts to control the narrative.