2 credit societies, 132 accounts, Rs 63 cr transactions: How ‘godman’ Kharat built his fortunes
Mumbai (PTI): Self-styled godman Ashok Kharat, facing rape charges, opened over 130 accounts in two cooperative credit societies in Maharashtra under different names and carried out transactions worth nearly Rs 63 crore in the past few years, a police official has said.
As per sources, one of the accounts was opened in the name of sister of former Maharashtra State Women’s Commission chairperson Rupali Chakankar, who resigned from the post last month after her alleged links with Kharat came to light following his arrest in Nashik.
These details emerged during a probe being conducted by police in Ahilyanagar district in a cheating case registered against Kharat, his wife Kalpana and three others, the official said on Thursday.
The case relates to the Kharat couple, residents of Nashik district, allegedly trying to grab four acres of land in the temple town of Shirdi after giving its owner a loan of Rs 5.52 crore.
The Shirdi police have arrested two middlemen in the case and are looking for Kalpana and one more person.
To prevent Kalpana from fleeing the country, police have issued a Lookout Notice against her, said Somnath Gharge, Superintendent of Police (SP), Ahilyanagar.
Immigration officials at designated airports, seaports, and land borders have been alerted about the case, he said.
While investigating the cheating case registered at Shirdi, police found that Kharat had opened more than 130 accounts in two cooperative credit societies (financial entities providing loans, savings, and banking services) in the name of different people in Ahilyanagar district, Gharge informed.
All these accounts had recorded heavy transaction volume in the last couple of years. In one of the credit societies, there were transactions of over Rs 60 crore and in the other, police have so far found transactions of more than Rs 2.74 crore, according to the SP.
The nominee for all the accounts was Kharat, a former merchant navy officer, and his mobile number was listed as the contact for each, Gharge said.
During the investigation, it was found that Kharat, who also claimed to be an astrologer, was operating all these accounts and depositing money, which he received from people visiting him for consultation, another official said.
In view of these revelations, the Enforcement Directorate, which probes money laundering cases, is likely to enter the inquiry scene, the second official said.
At least 10 FIRs -- eight for alleged sexual assault or exploitation of women and two for cheating -- have been registered against Kharat, who is being probed by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) set up by the state government.
The rape accused ‘godman’ is in the SIT custody till April 8.
Let the Truth be known. If you read VB and like VB, please be a VB Supporter and Help us deliver the Truth to one and all.
Karnataka gram panchayats achieve 89% of tax collection target
Bengaluru: Gram panchayats across Karnataka have recorded a strong improvement in revenue mobilisation, realising 89% of the tax collection target for the financial year 2025-26, one of the highest levels in recent years, The Hindu reported.
According to the Department of Rural Development and Panchayat Raj, 5,943 gram panchayats reported higher collections compared to the previous year. The total tax collection stood at Rs 1,382.57 crore, marking an increase of Rs 110.04 crore from Rs 1,272.54 crore collected in 2024-25.
Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Priyank Kharge said state had previously secured the top position at the national level in tax collection and revenue mobilisation with respect to village panchayats, and the continued upward trend highlights the impact of “efficient administration, strict enforcement of regulations, and strengthened tax collection mechanisms.”
ALSO READ: Yadgir: Two KBJNL engineers arrested by Lokayukta for bribery
In 2024-25, gram panchayats had realised 80% of the demand, collecting Rs 1,272.54 crore for the first time in the department’s history. Building on this, the state has now reached a record 89% realisation.
Highlighting district-wise performance, the minister noted that Raichur recorded 129% tax collection, while 11 districts crossed 100% realisation.
He said the improvement was driven by awareness campaigns, focused collection drives, and sustained efforts of officials at all levels, from bill collectors to senior administrators.
“Our focus over the past few years has been on improving systems, ensuring accountability, and empowering local bodies to enhance their own revenue capabilities. It is encouraging to see that every rupee collected is being reinvested into village infrastructure, public services, and local development. This is laying a strong foundation for inclusive and sustainable rural growth,” he said.
