Awhad Claims Political Conspiracy Against CM Fadnavis Involving 'Godman' Kharat
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Mumbai, March 25 (NationPress) Jitendra Awhad, an MLA representing NCP (SP), made alarming accusations in the Maharashtra Assembly on Wednesday. He asserted that specific leaders from the ruling party were conspiring to destabilize Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, utilizing the services of Nashik's self-proclaimed godman, Ashok Kharat, who is embroiled in sexual harassment allegations.
Awhad claimed that a plot was devised to oust the Chief Minister from his position.
During last week's opposition motion, Awhad directed serious accusations toward both the state government and the administrative bodies in relation to the Kharat case. He characterized the circumstances as a perilous mix of superstition, witchcraft, and political meddling.
Awhad lamented that such events were taking place in Maharashtra, a state revered for its historical figures like Saint Tukaram, Dnyaneshwar, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, pointing out that numerous ministers and MLAs sought Kharat's rituals.
Moreover, he alleged that public funds were misappropriated for various construction projects at the Ishanyeshwar Devasthan area, where Kharat holds the role of president. Awhad insisted on an investigation into the financial and land transactions involving Kharat and other trust members.
He underscored the need for a thorough inquiry, noting that Kharat has knowledge of numerous political events spanning the past two decades. Awhad claimed that Kharat's life was at risk due to his possession of sensitive information regarding many leaders, prompting his demand for 24-hour CCTV surveillance.
Alluding to the murder of a journalist in Nashik district in 2007, Awhad accused the administration, police, and certain political figures of being aware of Kharat’s wrongdoings yet failing to take action, which he labeled as a failure of the Intelligence Bureau.
He questioned the police force, demanding an investigation into which officers allegedly accepted bribes to suppress the case.
In the meantime, fellow NCP (SP) legislator Jayant Patil took a humorous jab at the surge in "Calling Attention" motions during the final day of the session.
He remarked that it seems the house's routine has devolved into just these motions, quipping, "I am starting to wonder if this session is indeed a 'Lakshadhiveshan' (a play on the session of lakhs/calling attention)."
Patil expressed frustration over the excessive time spent on Calling Attention Motions, leaving little opportunity for addressing substantive issues. "We are weary of highlighting this issue, but the evidence of neglect is apparent," he stated.
In response, Speaker Rahul Narwekar humorously noted, "You are discussing less about the Final Week Proposal and more about the conduct of business."
Patil replied, "I am wrapping up the session today, which is why I am vocalizing my concerns," to which the Speaker jested, "I think you aren’t concluding; you are holding us accountable."
Patil, known for his sharp wit, continued, "I am here for your benefit; I harbor no ill will. It is said that 175 MLAs signed for Calling Attention Motions. If I circulate a paper around the house, I could gather more signatures. Everyone wishes for their motion to be put forth, yet it is your duty to exercise control. The significance of the House must not wane. The House cannot function solely on MLA signatures."