Ashok Kharat
ANIS functionaries in Nashik highlighted that following the arrest of self-proclaimed astrologer Ashok Kharat in connection with rape and black magic cases, nearly 100 cases have been registered against fraudulent godmen across the state. Krishna Chandgude, state executive of ANIS, said, “Even though the Maharashtra Prevention and Eradication of Human Sacrifice and other Inhuman, Evil and Aghori Practices and Black Magic Act was enacted in 2013, its operational rules are still not in place, leading to poor implementation. Following the case against Kharat, 100 cases were registered across Maharashtra, with the maximum number reported in Mumbai, Nashik, and Pune. While Maharashtra made history in 2013 by passing the nation’s first Anti-Superstition and Black Magic Act—the culmination of an 18-year crusade led by the late Dr.
Nashik :The Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmoolan Samiti (ANIS) is demanding the appointment of dedicated vigilance officers at every police station across the state to ensure the effective implementation of the Anti-Superstition Law . In light of these increasing offenses, the organization has emphasized the need to appoint vigilance officers at the police station level to curb exploitation and enforce the law swiftly. We have been requesting government resources, such as dedicated police officers. He added that the Act clearly states an Anti-Superstition Cell should be established at every police station, complete with a designated vigilance officer and clear contact details for reporting complaints. ANIS office-bearers Sanjay Bansode, Krishna Chandgude, Adv. Ranjana Gawande, and Vishnudas Lonare noted that statewide anti-superstition conferences held after the Ashok Kharat incident gave victims the courage to speak up. These cases, involving fraudsters from all religious backgrounds, effectively dismantle the long-standing conservative claim that anti-superstition work targets only one faith. Narendra Dabholkar—ANIS emphasized that enforcement remains dangerously weak. To bridge this gap and prevent further exploitation, the organization has urged the state government to immediately establish clear operational guidelines and appoint a dedicated vigilance officer at every police station, while appealing to more victims to step forward without fear.
Across both rural and urban areas, victims were lured and cheated under the pretext of performing black magic, casting out evil spirits, curing illnesses, resolving family disputes, or promising miraculous wealth.