Ashok Kharat Rupali Chakankar MMS : Senior NCP leader Rupali Chakankar stepped down from her role as the president of the party’s Maharashtra women’s wing on Friday, following growing criticism over her alleged association with a man accused in a rape case.
In a post shared on X, Chakankar said that her decision came after a conversation with NCP president and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar earlier in the day.
Earlier Exit from Women’s Commission
This is not Chakankar’s first resignation linked to the controversy. Earlier, she had already vacated her position as the chairperson of the Maharashtra State Commission for Women after the issue gained public attention.
In her statement, she maintained that she had clarified her stance from the beginning and stressed that she had no direct or indirect involvement in any financial dealings or alleged misconduct related to the accused.
Who Is Ashok Kharat?
The controversy revolves around Ashok Kharat, a self-proclaimed astrologer and numerologist based in Nashik. He was recently arrested after a 28-year-old woman filed a complaint accusing him of sexual assault.
According to the allegations, Kharat drugged the victim and exploited her over an extended period.
Viral Video Spark Political Storm
The situation escalated after photos and videos surfaced on social media showing Chakankar alongside Kharat, reportedly during religious events.
These visuals triggered widespread backlash, with opposition leaders and critics questioning the credibility and impartiality of institutions like the State Women’s Commission.
Political Reactions Intensify
As the images circulated online, demands for Chakankar’s resignation grew louder. Leaders from various political parties openly criticized her, arguing that her association—regardless of the nature—raised serious ethical concerns given her position in a women-centric institution.
Chakankar Denies Any Wrongdoing
Despite stepping down from both roles, Chakankar has consistently denied any wrongdoing. She reiterated that her association with Kharat was being misinterpreted and insisted she had no role in the alleged crimes.