Mumbai, March 23 (NationPress) The Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) asserted on Monday that the recent scandal involving Captain Ashok Kharat, who claims to be a "royal astrologer", has reverberated throughout Maharashtra's political landscape.

Kharat's arrest, prompted by accusations of exploitation and deceit, has illuminated the troubling reality of numerous high-ranking officials and ministers who sought his "guidance" for political advantages. "Maharashtra's current political direction, transitioning from the shores of Guwahati to the Kharat Baba ashram, marks a concerning regression where the state’s progressive foundations are being obscured by a veil of superstition. The political scenario in Maharashtra reveals a shift from progressive ideologies to a culture dominated by superstition and 'godmen', as stated by the party in its publication, 'Saamana'.

In a biting editorial, the party pointed out that the inquiry into Kharat’s practices unveils a troubling aspect of his "spiritual" counsel, including claims of exploiting several women under the pretense of religious rites and fortune-telling. Despite these serious allegations, many members of the state cabinet remain ardent followers. "Kharat isn't the sole wrongdoer; those who sought his counsel share the blame equally," the editorial proclaimed.

The editorial added, “Notable figures, such as the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, and the Chairperson of the State Women’s Commission, have reportedly been linked with the 'Baba'. Allegations suggest that cabinet ministers engaged in Aghori (occult) practices to acquire the power needed to eliminate political adversaries. Prompt actions against Kharat could have averted further victimization.”

Furthermore, the Saamana editorial lambasted the Chairperson of the State Women’s Commission for reportedly paying homage to a man accused of exploiting women, suggesting her resignation is merely a facade to conceal a more profound systemic issue. The editorial invoked names like Asaram Bapu and Ram Rahim, questioning the continued support and association of the ruling party with such figures.

Additionally, the editorial drew attention to the stark contrast between the rise of superstition and the teachings of Maharashtra’s revered reformers such as Mahatma Jyotiba Phule, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, and the philosophically rich yet uneducated poet, Bahinabai Choudhari. While Bahinabai eschewed the "lines on a palm" in favor of diligence and self-sufficiency, contemporary ministers are depicted as donning amulets and threads, pursuing success through occultism instead of merit, it stated.

The Shiv Sena, under Uddhav Thackeray’s leadership, noted that the recent chilli Yagna finally prompted Chief Minister Fadnavis to take action; it contended that the harm done to Maharashtra’s progressive reputation is profound.

According to the Thackeray faction, "When power is acquired through wealth and conspiracies rather than earnest effort, such displays of superstition arise. Those lacking in self-confidence are the ones who resort to rituals, forgetting that no 'royal astrologer' can avert natural disasters or terrorist threats."