A retired Merchant Navy officer who allegedly posed as a “Captain” and astrologer has been arrested in Nashik for the repeated sexual assault of a woman, with police recovering 58 videos, including some objectionable clips, from his possession.
The accused, identified as Ashok Kumar Kharat, is said to have been known in political circles for making predictions and had been visited by several prominent leaders over the years. His arrest has triggered widespread reactions in the region.
According to the FIR, Kharat allegedly sexually assaulted a 35-year-old woman multiple times between November 2022 and December 2025. Police said he would call the woman to his office in the Canada Corner area of Nashik, claiming that his predictions indicated threats to her husband’s life.
He allegedly offered her drinks laced with sedatives before assaulting her and used intimidation and fear based on his so-called predictions to silence her.
Kharat, who is also the chairman of the Shree Ishaneshwar Mahadev Temple Trust in Mirgaon in Sinnar taluka, has been booked under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for rape and criminal intimidation. He has also been charged under the Maharashtra Prevention and Eradication of Human Sacrifice and other Inhuman, Evil and Aghori Practices and Black Magic Act.
Police officials said that 58 video clips stored on a pendrive have been seized, some of which are objectionable, while others show Kharat interacting with political figures and prominent individuals.
As the case drew political attention, Minister of State for Home Yogesh Kadam assured strict action and urged any other potential victims to come forward.
“I appeal to all women who may have complaints against the accused to come forward. We will ensure protection and take stringent action. The matter should not be politicised,” Kadam said.
He added that authorities would also investigate whether Kharat engaged in illegal or superstitious practices under the guise of astrology.
“If any wrongdoing is found, appropriate action will be taken. The probe will be impartial, and no one involved will be spared,” the minister said.
Kadam also stated that any alleged links involving individuals associated with Kharat’s trust would be examined separately, if required.
The case has also sparked political reactions, with allegations being raised over possible connections between the accused and certain public figures.
Police said further details are expected to emerge during Kharat’s interrogation as the investigation continues.
