Explained: This article explains the political background, key decisions, and possible outcomes related to Explained : Opposition to corner govt in rape-accused ‘godman’ case and Its Impact and why it matters right now.
Following the media reports, chief minister Devendra Fadnavis directed that Chakankar step down from her post. However, she continues as the state president of the women’s wing of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP, Ajit Pawar faction) and has said she will continue to work for women across the state.
Minister Chhagan Bhujbal of the Ajit Pawar faction questioned how Chakankar, a resident of Pune, came into contact with Kharat in Nashik, and said the party would decide whether she should continue as state president of the women’s wing.
Congress MP Varsha Gaikwad said Chakankar’s resignation alone would not bring closure to the case and called for a thorough investigation into all aspects of the matter. She also asked which ministers had visited Kharat’s gatherings and said their identities should be made public.
Journalist Dattatray Khemanar of the Marathi daily Khabardar Pudhari, who first reported on the case, made further allegations in media interactions. According to Khemanar, Kharat portrayed himself as a divine figure and allegedly used coercive and abusive practices to exploit women.
He claimed that more than 200 women may have been sexually exploited, many of them reportedly highly educated, including government officials and women from influential families. It has also been alleged that Kharat maintained links with politicians as well as senior bureaucrats, with reports suggesting that three IAS officers from Shirdi met him discreetly.
Given the alleged high-profile connections of the accused, concerns have been raised that the investigation could face pressure. Bhumata Brigade president Trupti Desai expressed apprehension that Kharat could be killed in an alleged encounter. The case is currently being investigated by the Crime Branch along with a Special Investigation Team (SIT).