Nagpur: The controversy surrounding arrested ‘godman’ Ashok Kharat, who has been named in at least seven cases of rape, fraud and exploitation, deepened further after Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) chief Harshwardhan Sapkal claimed that an impartial probe could implicate dozens of ministers and two dozen officials.In a public statement and on social media platform X on Wednesday, Sapkal claimed if the govt conducts an honest investigation, “many ministers and officers will land in jail”, pointing to what he described as deep-rooted links between influential figures and the accused.The remarks come amid scrutiny of past govt decisions, including a Rs1.5 crore grant reportedly sanctioned in 2018 to a temple associated with Kharat during Devendra Fadnavis’s first tenure as chief minister. Sapkal also referred to alleged connections between the ‘godman’ and individuals in key administrative positions, including an official currently serving in the housing authority.The MPCC chief said images have surfaced showing a Union minister with Kharat. He also claimed that senior state leaders had close associations with the controversial ‘godman’. Sapkal further alleged that certain political figures had performed ‘mystic rituals’ through the ‘godman’ to secure positions of power.Sapkal questioned the timing of the govt’s response, asserting that the CM Fadnavis was aware of the allegations for months, but failed to act earlier, suggesting that proximity of individuals linked to the case may have delayed action.The Congress leader also alleged that action against Kharat was triggered only after alleged attempts by BJP allies to use the ‘godman’ in occult rituals aimed at destabilising the present leadership governing the state. According to Sapkal, “action was taken only when such activities were used against the CM”, a charge that adds a layer of intra-political tension to the case.He also alleged that the issue is now being used as leverage within political circles. “The case is being used to pressure allies and internal rivals,” Sapkal said, indicating what he described as a broader misuse of the controversy.The allegations come at a time when the state govt faces increasing pressure to ensure transparency and accountability in the investigation. The case has drawn attention beyond Maharashtra, given the involvement of prominent political figures and the broader implications for governance and institutional credibility.The state govt has not publicly responded in detail to the latest claims. However, officials have maintained that due process is being followed and that investigations are ongoing.
