Mumbai, March 21 (NationPress) The Opposition parties, Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT), criticized the resignation of NCP leader Rupali Chakankar from her role as the chairperson of the Maharashtra State Women’s Commission, deeming it insufficient amidst the growing controversy surrounding her alleged connections to a self-styled rape-accused 'godman', Ashok Kharat.

They have insisted that the investigation should be expanded to uncover the involvement of high-profile ministers and influential figures.

Shiv Sena (UBT) specifically called for Chakankar's arrest, proposing that she be made a co-accused in the ongoing case.

Deputy leader of Shiv Sena (UBT), Sushama Andhare, remarked, “While we welcome the Home Minister's order for her resignation, we regret that Sunetra Tai, the state's first woman Deputy Chief Minister and party president, did not take a more decisive stand. Nevertheless, our struggle will persist. We demand that the residents of Chakan be treated as co-accused.”

In a parallel reaction, Congress Legislature Party leader, Vijay Wadettiwar, launched a fierce critique of the Mahayuti government, accusing it of actively concealing the scandal involving the fraudulent godman Kharat.

During a press briefing in Nagpur, Wadettiwar noted that Chakankar's resignation, while welcome, should be accompanied by actions against the influential individuals entangled in this case.

Wadettiwar expressed profound disappointment regarding Chakankar's actions, emphasizing that it is deeply shameful for Maharashtra that someone in a position meant to advocate for women's rights has shown allegiance to a fraudulent godman.

“How can an individual who believes in astrology and harmful, outdated practices deliver justice to the women of our state? Her resignation is merely a superficial act; a comprehensive and rigorous investigation into the entire situation is urgently required,” Wadettiwar stated.

Making serious allegations of a cover-up, the Congress leader demanded that the Call Detail Records (CDR) of all relevant associates and ministers who had contact with the accused Kharat be thoroughly examined.

He further claimed that Kharat's considerable wealth was amassed through the support of current ministers, alleging that police actions are influenced by governmental pressure aimed at shielding powerful individuals involved in this scandal.

Wadettiwar also drew attention to a troubling pattern where, on one hand, ministers are seen “washing the feet” of figures like Kharat, while on the other, instances of abuse against minor girls by self-proclaimed religious leaders are on the rise.