Nashik, April 3 (NationPress) A significant financial scandal has surfaced amid the ongoing investigation of the self-proclaimed spiritual leader Ashok Kharat. He currently faces grave accusations related to the sexual exploitation of women and financial misconduct under the guise of spirituality.

Early investigations indicate that Kharat purportedly established over 130 fraudulent bank accounts between 2021 and 2022, as reported by crime branch officials. These accounts, registered under various names, were utilized to conduct transactions amounting to crores of rupees.

Many of these accounts were allegedly managed through financial organizations such as Samata Credit Institution and Jagdamba Credit Institution, the officials noted.

In another shocking development, Kharat was reportedly named the nominee for all these accounts, according to the crime branch. Evidence suggests that significant sums—often reaching into lakhs—were transferred through these accounts within a single day. Investigators estimate that transactions surpassing Rs 50 crore may have been funneled through this network.

The inquiry has also raised concerns about the involvement of powerful individuals, with authorities investigating whether some accounts were opened using the names of relatives of influential figures.

However, there has been no official confirmation regarding these connections.

A breakthrough in tracing the financial activities emerged during the questioning of two suspects arrested earlier in a different money-lending case by the Shirdi police.

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) examining the case is currently looking into allegations of widespread financial discrepancies and potential money laundering. Sources suggest that funds collected unlawfully from devotees may have been channeled through hawala networks to obscure their origins.

In a related matter, the SIT was preparing to detain Kharat’s wife for questioning; however, she reportedly fled before any action could be taken.

Consequently, Kharat’s son was apprehended. During his questioning, he initially displayed resistance but later conceded that large amounts of cash frequently arrived at their home, although he claimed ignorance of its precise origins.

He did, however, confirm that his father had full control over their financial dealings. The SIT is poised to conduct a thorough financial audit of Shivnika Sansthan, an organization allegedly associated with Kharat, to determine if religious platforms were exploited to funnel and legitimize illicit funds.