Self Styled Godman Booked For Assault, Videos Seized In Nashik Case

A self-styled spiritualist from Maharashtra, Ashok Karat, also known as “Captain Karat”, has been booked following allegations of sexual assault, exploitation and intimidation of a woman over a prolonged period. According to police, the 35-year-old woman from Pune came into contact with the accused through social media. He allegedly misled her by claiming to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva and convinced her that she was Goddess Parvati. Investigations revealed that the accused met the woman in December and allegedly drugged and sexually assaulted her at a hotel, recorded the act and used the video to threaten and exploit her over the past three years. He is also accused of sexually assaulting her again at a hotel in Vasai in May last year. After enduring repeated harassment, the woman approached the police and lodged a complaint. Since the initial offence occurred in Pune, Manikpur police registered a Zero FIR and transferred the case to Hadapsar Police Station for further investigation. Inspector Hiralal Jadhav of Manikpur Police said that four special teams have been formed to trace and arrest the  and search operations have been intensified. Police sources said that following the complaint, several other women have also come forward alleging similar abuse. During searches at the accused’s ashram, officials reportedly seized over 100 objectionable videos along with documents, files and diaries believed to be linked to the case. The case has triggered widespread concern, with further investigation under way to uncover the full extent of the alleged offences.