Kharat case: SIT questions temple priest, watchman
MUMBAI/NASHIK, March 22: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing Ashok Kharat, a self-styled godman and ex-Merchant Navy officer, intensified its investigation into rape, human sacrifice, and black magic allegations. On Sunday, the SIT questioned the priest of Ishaneshwar Mahadev Temple and a watchman in Nashik. A staffer from Kharat’s office had been interrogated for seven hours the previous day. CCTV DVRs were seized from Kharat’s farmhouse, bungalow, and office. Kharat faces multiple charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, IT Act, and Maharashtra’s human sacrifice prevention law. Investigations also involve land and property dealings, with three women reportedly filing complaints. Authorities are probing misuse of Darna Dam water by Kharat-linked trust. Residents of Mirgaon demand severe punishment and seizure of Kharat’s properties. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis confirmed a high-level inquiry under the DGP, urging witnesses to cooperate while warning against politicization of the case. (PTI)
Panel seeks Lokpal inquiry, prosecution plan
NEW DELHI, March 22: A Parliamentary Committee has sought updates on the full operationalisation of the Lokpal’s inquiry and prosecution wings, over a decade after the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, came into force. While the Lokpal began functioning in March 2019, the appointment of the Director of Inquiry and staffing of the inquiry wing remain in progress. The committee wants details on steps taken to make the wing fully functional and coordinate with existing investigative agencies. The prosecution wing was formally constituted on June 6, 2025, but cases are currently handled through the CBI. The panel has also asked for timelines on notifying a dedicated special court under Section 35, as existing cases are tried by Prevention of Corruption Act judges. During 2024-25, 318 complaints were registered, with 288 disposed of, highlighting the need for adequate staffing. Of 65 sanctioned positions, 24 remain vacant. The committee recommended expeditious filling of vacancies and proper coordination to ensure the Lokpal can efficiently discharge its statutory functions. (PTI)
Former JD (U) leader KC Tyagi joins RLD
NEW DELHI, March 22: Former JD(U) leader KC Tyagi formally joined the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) on Sunday, stating that both parties follow the ideals of former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh and socialist leader Ram Manohar Lohia. Tyagi, who had been with JD(U) since its formation in 2003 and served as chief general secretary, chief spokesperson, and political adviser, said he was joining RLD not to contest elections but to help RLD chief Jayant Chaudhary become a leader like his grandfather, Charan Singh. Welcomed by Chaudhary, Tyagi pledged to carry forward Charan Singh’s vision for farmers’ welfare, a prosperous India, and a strong party organization. He also highlighted efforts to strengthen RLD’s presence in Uttar Pradesh and support the NDA ahead of the 2027 assembly polls, emphasizing continuity of socialist ideals. (PTI)
