Explained: This article explains the political background, key decisions, and possible outcomes related to Explained : Row erupts over video of Women’s Commission chief with rape-accused ‘godman’ and Its Impact and why it matters right now.
The former merchant navy employee turned to astrology and numerology after retirement, eventually cultivating a clientele that reportedly included politicians and celebrities. He went on to establish himself as a spiritual figure and founded the Shri Shivnika Sansthan temple in Sinnar taluka.
Chakankar is listed as a trustee of this temple. The site has also drawn political attention in the past — in November 2022, then chief minister Eknath Shinde had visited it, after which Kharat gained wider prominence.
Sushma Andhare, a leader from the Shiv Sena’s Uddhav Bal Thackeray faction, alleged that Chakankar had previously used her official position to pressure an organisation into apologising after it levelled sexual exploitation charges against Kharat.
“Now it is not just suspicion but fear — if she misuses such an important office again to support a person accused of such acts, who will take responsibility?” Andhare said, questioning whether Chakankar should continue in her role.
The controversy has widened, with RTI activist Vijay Kumbhar and social activist Anjali Damania sharing the video on social media, while NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) spokesperson Vilas Lavande has also called for Chakankar’s resignation.
Chakankar is affiliated with the Ajit Pawar-led faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). Opposition leaders have also sought to draw in the party’s leadership, asking whether it endorses her continuation in office.
Responding to the allegations, Chakankar said she had no knowledge of Kharat’s “personal life” or the accusations against him at the time. “I was not aware of the allegations against him. The police will now investigate the matter impartially,” she said, adding that she has full faith in the ongoing probe.
As the investigation deepens and more details emerge, the episode has raised broader questions about institutional credibility — particularly the optics and accountability expected from those tasked with safeguarding women’s rights.