Ashok Kharat was arrested in Nashik on Wednesday for allegedly raping a 35-year-old woman several times over three years

Fear, influence and silence shape the unfolding Ashok Kharat abuse case in Maharashtra, as villagers, officials and even victims hesitate to speak, while investigators uncover disturbing evidence and a vast network of connections.

Maharashtra women's panel chief resigns amid controversy over ties to rape-accused godman, facing political pressure and public backlash.

Maharashtra women's panel chief resigns amid controversy over ties to rape-accused godman, facing political pressure and public backlash.

Police said he manipulated a 35-year-old married woman through rituals and claims of divine powers, drugged her with intoxicants, hypnotised her, and repeatedly assaulted her.

Rupali Chakankar, the Chairperson of the Maharashtra State Commission for Women, has resigned from her post following a major political controversy involving her alleged links to a self-styled godman. The resignation comes days after the arrest of Captain Ashok Kharat. 📰 Ashok Kharat Viral Video: Rupali Chakankar Resigns As Maharashtra Women’s Commission Chief After Nashik Godman Controversy.

Earlier in the day, Chakankar met Police Director General Sadanand Date, handing over a letter demanding a thorough, impartial probe into the Ashok Kharat women's atrocity case, a high-level inquiry, and action against the accused.