Rape-accused ex-Merchant Navy ‘godman’ Ashok Kharat also named in suicide note

Trouble is mounting for Nashik’s self-styled godman Ashok Kharat, who is already in custody over multiple rape allegations, as an older and disturbing case has now resurfaced.

Four years after the death of 37-year-old Vikas Ramdas Divate in Shirdi, investigators have reopened the abetment to suicide case, with Kharat once again under scrutiny.

Divate had left behind a detailed suicide note in 2022, directly accusing Kharat of harassment and threats, along with naming his in-laws.

In the note, Divate claimed he was driven to take his life after sustained intimidation by the man he referred to as ‘Captain’ Kharat.

He also mentioned that phone call recordings were stored on his mobile phone and even shared the device passcode, urging authorities to act after his death.

Despite these explicit allegations, Divate’s brother Rajendra has now alleged that Kharat’s name, though initially included in the FIR, was later dropped from the chargesheet.

He claims there were attempts to shield the godman, eventually resulting in a clean chit. With Kharat’s recent arrest on March 17 in a sexual assault case, the spotlight has shifted back to his past.

Police say the suicide case will now be re-examined in light of new developments and have urged other possible victims to come forward.

The ongoing probe into the rape allegations has already uncovered a cache of 58 videos, including objectionable clips, recovered from a pen drive during searches.

Kharat’s alleged proximity to political figures has also triggered fallout. NCP leader Rupali Chakankar recently stepped down from her position following public outrage over her reported links with him, after visuals of their association surfaced online.

What was once dismissed now returns as a critical thread in a widening investigation, with police indicating that the full extent of Kharat’s influence and actions may only now be coming to light.

Suicide Is Not A Solution: If you are having suicidal thoughts, or you are worried about a friend, or you need emotional support, then there is someone who is always there to listen to you. Call the Sneha Foundation - 04424640050 (available 24x7) or iCall, the Tata Institute of Social Sciences helpline at 9152987821 (available Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 10 pm).