The Eknath Shinde–Ashok Kumar Eknath Kharat case has intensified in Maharashtra after Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis indicated a wider probe into individuals linked to Kharat. Authorities are examining digital evidence, financial transactions, and contact networks as part of the ongoing investigation led by the Nashik Crime Branch and special teams. Allegations regarding political associations remain unverified, and officials have emphasised that action will depend on concrete evidence. The case has raised broader concerns about governance, accountability, and the extent of scrutiny involving individuals connected to the ongoing investigation.

Eknath Shinde–Goddess Kamakhya–Ashok Kumar Eknath Kharat case: Investigation widens as Maharashtra government signals broader scrutiny

Sprouts News investigative reports highlight allegations linking Eknath Shinde with Ashok Kumar Eknath Kharat, intensifying scrutiny in Maharashtra. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis confirmed a wider probe, as political claims, evidence review, and ongoing investigations continue to raise serious legal and political questions.

Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Sambhaji Shinde is closely connected with tantrik and alleged black magician Ashok Kumar Eknath Kharat. Kharat is accused of carrying out more than six to seven ‘narbali’ (human sacrifices). Eknath Shinde allegedly met Kharat secretly on multiple occasions. Shinde is described as highly superstitious and a staunch devotee of the Kamakhya Goddess, often associated with tantric practices and occult traditions.

At times, he was accompanied by his close political associate Deepak Kesarkar. Both are alleged to have planned to unseat Devendra Fadnavis from the Chief Minister’s position and install Eknath Shinde. These developments are claimed to be known among cabinet ministers and close MLAs.

Allegations surrounding self-styled godman and alleged black magician Ashok Kumar Eknath Kharat have triggered political attention in Maharashtra, with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stating that everyone in contact with him may be examined.

The Eknath Shinde–Ashok Kumar Eknath Kharat case has intensified political and legal scrutiny in Maharashtra after serious allegations surfaced against Ashok Kumar Eknath Kharat, and questions were raised regarding his reported contacts.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis told the Assembly that all those associated with Ashok Kumar Eknath Kharat, including members of his Shivnika trust and individuals in his contact network, could face scrutiny.

That statement has brought political names into focus, including former Women’s Commission chairperson Rupali Chakankar and former minister Deepak Kesarkar, whose reported contact with Ashok Kumar Eknath Kharat has drawn attention. The main target remains Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Sambhaji Shinde.

Claims circulating in political circles have also mentioned Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.

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Eknath Shinde, Ashok Kumar Eknath Kharat and the political controversy

Some reports and sources have alleged that Eknath Shinde had close contact with Ashok Kumar Eknath Kharat and met him privately on multiple occasions. Two to three photographs are also reportedly available in the public domain. Sprouts News has previously published reports on this matter.

The same set of allegations also names Deepak Kesarkar, described as a very close political associate of Shinde.

Additional political claims suggest that internal rivalries involving Devendra Fadnavis formed part of the broader context.

References have also been made to Shinde’s devotion to the Kamakhya Goddess, a religious tradition often culturally associated with tantric practices. Religious belief alone does not establish wrongdoing.

What Devendra Fadnavis said in the Assembly

Fadnavis stated in the Assembly that the investigation would not proceed merely based on photographs. He added that action would be taken wherever concrete evidence is found.

He also stated that mobile data from Ashok Kumar Eknath Kharat’s phone was being recovered and examined. According to his statement, investigators would analyse contacts, transactions, and related dealings.

Fadnavis informed the House that eight cases had been registered in connection with Ashok Kumar Eknath Kharat and that a special team and the Nashik Crime Branch were handling the investigation.

He further stated that the police would examine whether Ashok Kumar Eknath Kharat had links with senior administrative officers (IAS, IPS), thereby widening the scope of the investigation beyond the immediate allegations.

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Victim protection, court scenes, and the wider probe

The government stated that videos and photographs revealing the victim’s identity were being removed from social media platforms. Notices were issued to media outlets that disclosed her identity.

The case has triggered strong public anger. Crowds gathered outside the Nashik court, and there was an attempt to obstruct the police vehicle when Ashok Kumar Eknath Kharat was being taken away.

According to available information, Ashok Kumar Eknath Kharat’s police custody was extended until March 29. Investigators are also examining forensic aspects related to substances allegedly used in the case.

The Assembly statement also referred to significant assets allegedly linked to Ashok Kumar Eknath Kharat, including properties in Nashik, Sinnar, Pune, and Navi Mumbai, with total assets valued at over Rs 40 crore.

Even Rohit Pawar and Amol Mitkari have made allegations that Kharat is also involved in the alleged murder of the then Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. Even Eknath Shinde has become very comfortable after the alleged murder of Ajit Pawar. Fadnavis is also allegedly targeting Shinde in this connection.

What happens next

The political impact of the case could deepen if the investigation establishes documented links between Ashok Kumar Eknath Kharat and any public figures. At present, these connections remain under scrutiny, not conclusion.

For Sprouts News, the position remains clear: report allegations as allegations, present official statements accurately, and allow evidence—not speculation—to determine the next stage of the story.

Explosive Investigation:

Unmesh Gujarathi, an investigative journalist, has exposed multiple networks of connections and alleged fraud within complex scams. For further information or credible inputs, individuals with relevant knowledge may contact the investigative team at 9322755098.

Editorial Note:

This article is based on publicly available FIR records, court case references, and reports published by multiple media organisations. The information is presented in the context of ongoing investigations and public interest reporting. Sprouts News does not make any judicial determination regarding the individuals mentioned and does not intend to defame any person or organisation. Any individual seeking clarification or wishing to provide an official response may contact the editorial team with verifiable documentation. The information is presented for journalistic and informational purposes.