ED launches money laundering probe against Nashik godman Ashok Kharat, others

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has registered an Enforcement Case Information Report – the ED equivalent of a police FIR – against Nashik-based self-styled godman Ashok Kharat and others, taking cognisance of the multiple First Information Reports (FIRs) filed against them in Nashik and other cities.

The astrologer, who was arrested last month after a married woman claimed that he raped her repeatedly over three years, is accused of several other serious offences, including sexual intercourse through deceitful means, and violations under the Maharashtra Prevention and Eradication of Human Sacrifice and other Inhuman, Evil and Aghori Practices and Black Magic Act, 2013.

Besides the aforementioned allegations, Kharat has also been accused of financial misconduct, land grabbing, and illegal property deals in various locations. The ECIR against him and his alleged associates was registered by the ED on April 4. The money-laundering investigation is likely to focus on allegations that several properties amassed by Kharat were acquired through fraudulent means and schemes.

The investigators are expected to prioritise identifying the proceeds of crime. According to sources, the probe agency also plans to take Kharat into custody to get further details of the alleged fraud perpetrated by him and information about his purported associates.

ED will soon initiate the probe with raids, sources said. Meanwhile, documents related to the primary charges against Kharat, which are being investigated by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Maharashtra Police, have already been shared with the ED.

ASHOK KHARAT CASE: BRIEF OVERVIEW

Ashok Kharat, also known as 'Captain’ Kharat', is a former merchant navy officer who has been arrested for allegedly raping a woman and exploiting others under the guise of religious practices.

The police have said that he allegedly manipulated a 35-year-old married woman through rituals and claims of divine powers, drugged her with intoxicants, hypnotised her, and repeatedly assaulted her between November 2022 and December 2025. So far, three women have come forward with complaints of sexual abuse. However, the list is said to be steadily growing.

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(With inputs from agencies)