Archive · 23 Jul 2026
Godman Ashok Kharat Accused of Fraud and Money Laundering
Ashok Kharat, a self-styled godman, is accused of using his followers' KYC documents to open fake bank accounts and selling ordinary items like tamarind seeds and gemstones as spiritually empowered products at high prices.
The Enforcement Directorate claims he laundered money and extorted followers, while Kharat denies any wrongdoing, stating the money was voluntary donations.
He could not provide proof of the source of the funds.
Ashok Kharat allegedly used followers' KYC documents to open bogus bank accounts.
He sold ordinary products as spiritually empowered items at exorbitant prices.
The Enforcement Directorate alleges money laundering and extortion.
Kharat denies wrongdoing, claiming funds were voluntary donations.
He could not provide documentary proof of the source of the funds.
- Who
- Ashokkumar Eknath Kharat alias 'Captain'
- What
- Allegations of money laundering, extortion, cheating, and sexual assault
- When
- Arrested on July 22
- Where
- Mumbai
- Why
- Alleged misuse of followers' KYC documents and sale of ordinary products as spiritually empowered items
Enforcement Directorate's Allegations
Ashok Kharat's Defense
Use of KYC Documents
Enforcement Directorate's Allegations
Kharat collected KYC documents under the pretext of pilgrimage bookings and used them to open bogus bank accounts without followers' knowledge.
Ashok Kharat's Defense
Kharat denies wrongdoing and claims the money was received as voluntary donations.
Sales of Ordinary Products
Enforcement Directorate's Allegations
Kharat sold ordinary products like tamarind seeds and gemstones as spiritually empowered items at exorbitant prices.
Ashok Kharat's Defense
Kharat claims he never charged a fee for spiritual consultations and that followers contributed out of faith.
Source of Funds
Enforcement Directorate's Allegations
Kharat could not produce documentary proof regarding the source of large cash deposits, investments, and donations.
Ashok Kharat's Defense
Kharat states that funds received through Shree Shivnika Sansthan were meant for religious and charitable activities.
- Accused
- Ashokkumar Eknath Kharat alias 'Captain'
- Allegations
- Money laundering, extortion, cheating, sexual assault
- Number of Bogus Accounts
- 60 bank accounts, 48 special savings accounts, 34 fixed deposit and current accounts
- Products Sold
- Tamarind seeds, gemstones, Vastu Yantras, Suvarna Bhasma, energised rings, sacred honey
- Denial
- Kharat denies all allegations and claims funds were voluntary donations