A cloak of stars and trail of scars: The dark orbit of 'astrologer' Ashok Kharat

Nashik police arrested self-proclaimed godman Ashok Kharat in March 2026 on charges of repeated sexual assault, exploitation, and financial wrongdoing. A cascade of FIRs followed, with over 100 calls reporting various offenses, revealing a widespread alleged exploitation racket. The investigation expanded to include financial crimes and a political storm erupted, leading to resignations and calls for accountability.

By HADI KHAN