Maharashtra EPSTEIN FILE ARRESTED ASHOK KHARAT also known as "Captain," and the subsequent resignation of Rupali Chakankar, Chairperson of the Maharashtra State Commission for Women.
1. The Arrest of Ashok Kharat ("Captain")
Ashok Kumar Kharat, a 67-year-old retired Merchant Navy officer and self-proclaimed astrologer/numerologist, was arrested by the Nashik Crime Branch on Wednesday, March 18, 2026.
* The Allegations: A 35-year-old woman filed a complaint stating that Kharat sexually exploited her repeatedly between 2022 and December 2025.
* Modus Operandi: Kharat allegedly used spiritual fear, claiming her husband's life was in danger. He reportedly administered sedative-laced drinks to rendered victims unconscious before assaulting them.
* "Maharashtra’s Epstein Files": During raids on his residence and farmhouse in Sinnar, police recovered a pen drive and laptops containing over 100 objectionable videos of various women. The Opposition has compared this to the Jeffrey Epstein case due to the scale and alleged involvement of high-profile individuals.
* Recovered Items: Along with the videos, police seized ₹8 lakh in cash, a pistol, live cartridges, and documents for properties estimated to be worth over ₹200 crore.
2. Resignation of Rupali Chakankar
On Friday, March 20, 2026, Rupali Chakankar resigned from her post as Chairperson of the State Commission for Women.
* The Viral Video: The resignation followed the viral spread of a video showing her washing Kharat’s feet (Padya-pujan) and holding an umbrella for him.
* The "Guru" Connection: Chakankar admitted to considering Kharat her "guru" but claimed the video was 5-6 years old. She stated she was unaware of his criminal activities and resigned to maintain the integrity of the investigation.
* Political Pressure: Her resignation was reportedly prompted by a direct request from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, as her position became untenable given the nature of the allegations against Kharat.
3. SIT Investigation & Legal Charges
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to handle the case, led by IPS officer Tejaswi Satpute.
* Legal Sections: Kharat has been booked under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS):
* Section 64: Punishment for rape.
* Section 69: Sexual intercourse by deceitful means.
* Maharashtra Anti-Black Magic Act: For practicing inhuman and evil rituals.
* Broadening Probe: The SIT is investigating a wider network, including an extortion link involving Kharat's former assistant, Neeraj Jadhav, who allegedly used the videos to blackmail victims.
* Custody: Kharat is currently in police custody until March 24, 2026.
Timeline of Events (March 2026)
| March 17 | FIR registered against Ashok Kharat in Nashik. |
| March 18 | Kharat arrested; SIT formed under IPS Tejaswi Satpute. |
| March 19 | Viral videos of Rupali Chakankar surface; raids recover 100+ videos. |
| March 20 | Rupali Chakankar submits resignation to CM and NCP leadership. |
| March 21 | Opposition demands CDR (Call Detail Record) analysis of linked ministers. |
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