Investigation Uncovers Network of Fraudulent Bank Accounts Tied to ‘Godman’ Kharat
Fraudulent Accounts Linked to Spiritual Healer
A Mumbai-based hotelier has reported discovering that over Rs 2.43 crore had been transferred through four bank accounts in his and his wife’s names, which he claims they never opened. This revelation came following a call from the Ahilyanagar police earlier this month. The hotelier suspects that documents he provided for a “darshan booking” with the arrested ‘godman’ Ashokkumar Eknath Kharat were misused to establish these accounts. He described visiting Kharat under the impression that he was a spiritual healer.
The ongoing investigation into Kharat began with allegations of sexual assault, cheating, and extortion, alongside violations under the anti-superstition Act. This investigation has since expanded to include his financial activities. Kharat is facing 13 police cases, as well as a money laundering case introduced by the Enforcement Directorate.
Scope of the Investigation
Documents acquired through complaints and bank records suggest that personal information from followers, visitors, and alleged victims may have been utilized to open over 130 fraudulent bank accounts. Transactions involving these accounts have surpassed Rs 63 crore from 2021 to 2024, with Kharat identified as a nominee on at least one hundred of the accounts. His mobile number appears frequently across these accounts.
The modus operandi remains consistent: individuals would contact Kharat for “consultations” or “predictions,” and were instructed to submit identification documents like Aadhaar and PAN cards, along with photographs. These documents were used to open bank accounts that subsequently received funds.
Involvement of Cooperative Societies
Most of the accounts in question were registered with the Jagdamba Cooperative Credit Society and Samata Nagari Sahakari Pat Sanstha, Rahata, both of which are connected to Kharat. Records indicate that Kharat held the position of chairman at the Jagdamba society until 2024, while the Samata society is associated with his co-accused, Arvind Pandurang Bawke. A significant number of financial transactions occurred during their leadership. Over a hundred suspect accounts have been attributed to the Samata society, with around 32 identified under Jagdamba.
Bawke has also been arrested in connection with a cheating case where Kharat and his wife face accusations. There are indications that multiple accounts have been opened in the name of the same individuals, with several accounts appearing to be registered within a brief timeframe.
Forensic Examination and Victim Statements
Ahilyanagar SP Somnath Gharge reported that the statements of 20 account holders have been recorded, revealing that these individuals were unaware of the accounts opened in their names. A forensic examination of the accounts is currently in progress.
One woman, who has accused Kharat of sexual assault and forcing her into a miscarriage, has claimed that her personal documents, along with those of her family members, were used for establishing accounts related to a credit society. She stated that she was compelled to sign documents associated with the society despite her objections. Another complainant has lodged a case related to a land dispute connected to Kharat.
Business Ventures and Financial Scrutiny
Kharat is also listed as a director in Shree Vyankatesh Farmers Producer Company Limited, established in December 2021, which was recognized in March 2024 as a State Level Agency for procurement of agricultural produce under the MSP system through agencies like NAFED. A farmer from Shirdi has alleged that payments were not made following procurement conducted through this company.
Investigators are looking into whether there are links between the financial activities highlighted in these bank accounts and transactions involving Kharat’s business ventures. Another company, Bright Sparks Infra Private Limited, was registered in 2024, with many of the same individuals from the alleged network, including Bawke. Bawke previously mentioned that the company sought government contracts, with Kharat handling documentation and investments.
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Contents
Fraudulent Accounts Linked to Spiritual HealerA Mumbai-based hotelier has reported discovering that over Rs 2.43 crore had been transferred through four bank accounts in his and his wife’s names, which he claims they never opened. This revelation came following a call from the Ahilyanagar police earlier this month. The hotelier suspects that documents he provided for a “darshan booking” with the arrested ‘godman’ Ashokkumar Eknath Kharat were misused to establish these accounts. He described visiting Kharat under the impression that he was a spiritual healer.The ongoing investigation into Kharat began with allegations of sexual assault, cheating, and extortion, alongside violations under the anti-superstition Act. This investigation has since expanded to include his financial activities. Kharat is facing 13 police cases, as well as a money laundering case introduced by the Enforcement Directorate.Scope of the InvestigationDocuments acquired through complaints and bank records suggest that personal information from followers, visitors, and alleged victims may have been utilized to open over 130 fraudulent bank accounts. Transactions involving these accounts have surpassed Rs 63 crore from 2021 to 2024, with Kharat identified as a nominee on at least one hundred of the accounts. His mobile number appears frequently across these accounts.The modus operandi remains consistent: individuals would contact Kharat for “consultations” or “predictions,” and were instructed to submit identification documents like Aadhaar and PAN cards, along with photographs. These documents were used to open bank accounts that subsequently received funds.Involvement of Cooperative SocietiesMost of the accounts in question were registered with the Jagdamba Cooperative Credit Society and Samata Nagari Sahakari Pat Sanstha, Rahata, both of which are connected to Kharat. Records indicate that Kharat held the position of chairman at the Jagdamba society until 2024, while the Samata society is associated with his co-accused, Arvind Pandurang Bawke. A significant number of financial transactions occurred during their leadership. Over a hundred suspect accounts have been attributed to the Samata society, with around 32 identified under Jagdamba.Bawke has also been arrested in connection with a cheating case where Kharat and his wife face accusations. There are indications that multiple accounts have been opened in the name of the same individuals, with several accounts appearing to be registered within a brief timeframe.Forensic Examination and Victim StatementsAhilyanagar SP Somnath Gharge reported that the statements of 20 account holders have been recorded, revealing that these individuals were unaware of the accounts opened in their names. A forensic examination of the accounts is currently in progress.One woman, who has accused Kharat of sexual assault and forcing her into a miscarriage, has claimed that her personal documents, along with those of her family members, were used for establishing accounts related to a credit society. She stated that she was compelled to sign documents associated with the society despite her objections. Another complainant has lodged a case related to a land dispute connected to Kharat.Business Ventures and Financial ScrutinyKharat is also listed as a director in Shree Vyankatesh Farmers Producer Company Limited, established in December 2021, which was recognized in March 2024 as a State Level Agency for procurement of agricultural produce under the MSP system through agencies like NAFED. A farmer from Shirdi has alleged that payments were not made following procurement conducted through this company.Investigators are looking into whether there are links between the financial activities highlighted in these bank accounts and transactions involving Kharat’s business ventures. Another company, Bright Sparks Infra Private Limited, was registered in 2024, with many of the same individuals from the alleged network, including Bawke. Bawke previously mentioned that the company sought government contracts, with Kharat handling documentation and investments.
