Enforcement Directorate conducts fresh raids against Ashok Kharat in money laundering and exploitation case
April 17, 2026: The Enforcement Directorate on Friday carried out fresh searches in Maharashtra’s Nashik district as part of a money laundering investigation against self-styled godman Ashok Kharat. Officials said a location in Sharanpur town was raided, where documents and electronic devices are being examined. This follows earlier searches conducted on April 13 at premises linked to Kharat, his associates, and cooperative credit societies.
During the initial raids, the agency seized ₹42 lakh in cash and froze assets worth ₹2.4 crore. The case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) stems from a Nashik police FIR accusing Kharat of extortion, religious manipulation, and drug-facilitated assault on multiple women. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has also been set up by the Maharashtra government, while police have registered multiple FIRs against him.
Investigators allege that Kharat operated several bank accounts in the names of third parties and sold ordinary items as “blessed” objects, claiming divine healing powers. The funds collected were allegedly diverted into land investments through his associates. Arrested in March following allegations of repeated sexual assault, Kharat remains in judicial custody as the probe continues to unfold.