Rupali Chakankar’s exit not enough; probe must target ‘big fish’, says Congress leader

A day after Rupali Chakankar quit as chairperson of the Maharashtra women’s commission over her association with a ‘godman’ accused of rape, Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar on Saturday (March 21, 2026) said her resignation alone was not enough and demanded action against the “big fish” linked to the accused.

He claimed that attempts were on to protect influential people linked to self-styled godman Ashok Kharat, who was arrested in Nashik earlier this week.

Ms. Chakankar, who faced criticism from Opposition parties for her association with Kharat, tendered her resignation as chairperson of the Maharashtra State Women’s Commission to Deputy Chief Minister and NCP chief Sunetra Pawar on Friday, March 20, 2026.

Speaking to reporters in Nagpur, Wadettiwar said Chakankar’s resignation alone was not enough and demanded a thorough investigation into the entire incident, including alleged links with ministers and others.

“The resignation has been given, but action needs to be taken against the big fish involved. There are efforts to cover up the Kharat case, and pressure is being put on the police during the investigation.”

Mr Wadettiwar said Ms Chakankar, as chairperson of the State Panel on Women, was expected to protect the dignity and rights of women, but her alleged affair with the ‘godman’ had raised serious concerns.

He also demanded a review of the call detail records (CDRs) of everyone who was in contact with Kharat, including Ministers and other close associates.

“Given the immense wealth and patronage enjoyed by Kharat, it appears that it was an attempt to protect some individuals,” he claimed.

Claiming to be a retired Merchant Navy officer, Kharat, known as “the captain”, has had many political leaders visit him over the years. He was arrested on Wednesday for allegedly sexually assaulting a woman for three years.

The Congress Legislature Party leader also criticized the state government and accused it of not resolving citizens’ issues and allowing “superstition-driven practices” to flourish.

Meanwhile, commenting on political developments in Satara, where the BJP holds Zilla Parishad president and vice-president, Mr. Wadettiwar claimed that leaders aligned with Shiv Sena Minister Shambhuraj Desai, though they do not have a majority, are facing internal sabotage reflecting discord within the ruling alliance.