The arrest of Ashok Kharat, a self-proclaimed godman, in Nashik on March 18, 2026, for the alleged rape of a 27-year-old woman has sparked a political controversy in Maharashtra.
The Special Investigation Team (SIT), which is investigating allegations of rape, human sacrifice, and black magic against the 67-year-old former Merchant Navy officer-turned-astrologer, has been collecting evidence and recording witness statements.
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Several political leaders and social activists have also accused Kharat of having alleged connections with prominent politicians and bureaucrats in the State.
Here are the list of events that led to the political unrest in Maharashtra:
