Ashok Kharat Remanded To 14-Day Judicial Custody; Bail Window Opens

Nashik: Self-styled godman Ashok Kharat’s police custody ended today, and he was produced before the court. The path for his bail has now opened as the court has remanded him to 14 days of judicial custody. He will once again be produced before the court tomorrow in connection with another case. The entire state of Maharashtra, along with the victimised women, is now closely watching what action and punishment may follow in this second case.

Kharat was earlier produced before the court on March 29, after which the court had extended his police custody till April 1. It had come to light that Kharat was not cooperating with the investigation. His mobile phone data has reportedly been recovered, and there is suspicion that the names of political figures were saved under other names in the device.

However, today the court denied further police custody and instead granted 14 days of judicial custody. This has led to discussions that the way for Kharat’s bail may now be open.

Notably, today’s court hearing concluded in just seven minutes, with no major arguments presented. Earlier, Ashok Kharat had been remanded to police custody on three separate occasions. It was anticipated that he would be sent to judicial custody during today’s hearing, which has now happened.

Several other cases have also been registered against Kharat. On Thursday, April 2, he will be produced before the court in connection with another case. In that matter, the SIT is expected to seek police custody for further investigation.