Maharashtra State Women’s Commission Chairperson Rupali Chakankar on Friday submitted her resignation to Chief Minister (CM) Devendra Fadnavis, citing personal reasons. A political controversy had erupted in the state, with opposition leaders alleging her links to self-proclaimed godman Ashok Kharat, also known as Captain Kharat, who was arrested from Nashik on charges of sexual harassment and rape, and demanding that she step down.
The resignation reportedly comes shortly after Fadnavis had asked her to step down.
Chakankar, a trustee of Shri Shivnika Sansthan in Sinnar, Nashik, where Kharat serves as president, had faced growing political pressure over her alleged proximity to the accused. The controversy escalated after photographs and videos emerged showing her washing Kharat’s feet and holding an umbrella over him, acts criticised by opponents as reverential.
In her resignation letter, dated March 20, 2026, Chakankar called for a thorough, time-bound, and impartial investigation, noting that the commission was monitoring the case and urging the Nashik Police Commissioner to keep her informed of developments.
Earlier, Chief Minister Fadnavis had asked Chakankar to step down and ordered the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT), led by IPS officer Tejasvi Satpute, to probe allegations against Kharat, including repeated sexual assault and recording of several women.
The arrest and ensuing political uproar have drawn criticism across party lines. Shiv Sena (UBT) spokesperson Sushma Andhare, social activist Anjali Damania, and NCP leader Rupali Thombare Patil accused Chakankar of participating in black magic rituals and shielding Kharat, who faces additional charges of financial exploitation and sexual abuse.
Photographs and seized evidence, including a pen drive reportedly containing 58 video clips, have intensified scrutiny of Kharat’s activities. Chakankar has maintained that she was unaware of his alleged crimes and described the footage as politicised.
Senior NCP leaders, including Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare, called the developments deeply disturbing and assured strict action against anyone found guilty. Party discussions are ongoing, with senior leaders, including National President Sunetra Pawar, expected to be consulted.
Chakankar’s resignation comes amid rising demands for accountability, a key development in the investigation into one of Maharashtra’s most high-profile sexual exploitation cases.
(With IANS inputs)
