Police in Nashik have arrested an influential astrologer, Ashok Kharat, on charges of repeatedly sexually assaulting a 35-year-old woman under the guise of spiritual practices.
According to investigators, the 67-year-old accused allegedly exploited the victim’s faith by promising to resolve her personal issues through rituals. The woman has claimed that during these sessions, she was administered an intoxicating substance and manipulated into a vulnerable state before being assaulted.
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Police officials revealed that the alleged abuse may not have been confined to a single victim. Preliminary findings suggest that multiple women could have been targeted in a similar manner, raising serious concerns about a broader pattern of exploitation.
As per the First Information Report (FIR), Kharat—who reportedly refers to himself as “Captain” due to his background as a retired Merchant Navy officer—would allegedly lure women to his office with assurances of solving their personal and emotional problems.
Authorities have launched a detailed investigation to identify other potential victims and gather further evidence. The case has sparked outrage and renewed calls for stricter action against individuals misusing positions of influence and faith to exploit vulnerable people.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)
