ED Seeks Custody of ‘Godman’ Accused of Rape in Mumbai for Money Laundering Investigation.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has initiated legal proceedings against Ashok Kharat, a self-styled godman and astrologer, by filing a motion for a production warrant in a special PMLA court in Mumbai. Kharat faces serious allegations of rape and fraud, which are linked to a broader investigation into money laundering activities. This action comes after the ED registered a criminal case on April 6 under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), influenced by a Nashik police FIR detailing various charges against Kharat.

The FIR against Kharat includes accusations of extortion, religious manipulation, and the use of drugs to facilitate assaults on multiple women. These allegations position Kharat at the nexus of multiple serious offenses, prompting the ED’s active involvement. This development reflects an ongoing commitment from law enforcement to tackle financial crimes that intersect with exploitative practices under the guise of religion and spirituality.

The case against Kharat underscores the heightened scrutiny of individuals operating in the religious and spiritual sectors, where exploitation can often occur unchecked. As investigations unfold, the ED’s actions may serve as a pivotal point in addressing and curtailing unlawful activities masked by religious authority, reaffirming the need for accountability and transparency in such sectors.