Nashik: Senior advocate Ujjwal Nikam opposed the bail application of astrologer Ashok Kharat during a hearing on Monday in the Nashik district and sessions court. Nikam argued that Kharat had exploited women by instilling fear and abusing their trust as a spiritual figure. This case highlights concerns about the vulnerability of individuals seeking guidance from spiritual leaders, raising questions about accountability and trust in such relationships.
The court has now posted the matter for detailed hearing on Sept 16. Kharat has been in judicial custody since his arrest on March 17 following the registration of the first sexual assault case against him.
Making his first appearance as the state’s special public prosecutor in the case, Nikam said the Special Investigation Team (SIT) had already filed chargesheets in six of the eight cases it investigated, while two cases are awaiting committal to the sessions court. “We presented a detailed analysis to the court explaining exactly how Kharat operated, how he put these vulnerable women under intense fear, and why granting him bail would be a grave error,” Nikam told reporters after the hearing. Kharat sought bail on the grounds that the particular offence was bailable, according to Nikam.
However, the prosecution maintained strong objections and urged the court to reject the plea.