Sapkal questions Maha delay in Kharat probe

Nagpur: Maharashtra Congress president Harshwardhan Sapkal on Tuesday questioned the state govt's handling of the Ashok Kharat case, alleging delay in action despite early inputs and calling for stricter investigation measures.

Speaking to media in Buldhana, Sapkal said CM Devendra Fadnavis had information about the case around Diwali last year when allegations against the self-styled godman began surfacing. "Kharat's misconduct already came to light in Oct-Nov, and the home dept was gathering evidence. What was CM doing for six months?" he asked.





The MPCC chief said the case triggered "disturbing discourse" in Maharashtra and urged the BJP-led govt to strengthen the probe. "Provide additional support to the SIT, form a task force and ensure strict action against the accused to bring the case to a conclusion," he said.

Sapkal also alleged that the govt was prolonging the case. He noted that former State Women's Commission chairperson Rupali Chakankar resigned, but questioned whether others linked to the case would face action. "Cases must be registered against all those involved," he said.

Linking the episode to broader social concerns, Sapkal described it as a product of superstition. "Society must learn from this and adopt a scientific temper," he said, adding that divisive narratives contribute to such incidents. Referring to late rationalist Narendra Dabholkar, he said, "He fought his entire life against superstition. His work must be carried forward so that such distortions do not emerge again."

Raising concerns on law and order, the MPCC chief cited an incident in Satara during ZP election, where Shiv Sena ministers Shambhuraje Desai and Makarand Patil reportedly claimed they were "manhandled by police". "The fact that ministers themselves are being beaten is a serious matter and raises concerns about governance," he said, adding that the episode also revived allegations of vote irregularities.

Turning to corruption, Sapkal targeted Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Gaikwad, demanding transparency in development expenditure. He alleged that contracts were concentrated among relatives and questioned the source of rising assets. "A white paper should be released detailing village-wise spending," he said, also seeking clarity on land reportedly earmarked for housing the underprivileged.

Sapkal said both the Kharat case and corruption concerns pointed to systemic issues that require prompt and transparent action.
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