Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Mar 21: Former Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday called for strict action against “fraudulent godmen,” following the arrest of Ashok Kharat alias Bhondu Baba in a rape case that has sparked political controversy in the state.

Addressing a press conference in Mumbai, Thackeray urged the government to widen the investigation beyond the individual and examine any political connections supporting such self-styled spiritual figures.

He also pressed Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to enforce the state’s Anti-Superstition and Black Magic Act strictly, regardless of political affiliations. Mocking superstitious practices, Thackeray remarked that laws lose their meaning if those responsible for enforcing them are themselves influenced by such figures.

Raising concerns over governance, he alleged that such controversies are being used to divert attention from more pressing issues, taking indirect swipes at political rivals. He also called for a comprehensive inquiry into all links, including past decisions, stating that accountability must apply across the board.

Responding to reports that water resources had been allocated to Kharat’s establishment during the previous government, Thackeray said he had no objection to a full probe, urging authorities to “find out how deep the water goes” and ensure action against anyone found guilty.

Contrasting his party’s agenda with the current discourse, Thackeray emphasized development initiatives such as logistics and industrial growth, while criticising what he described as a shift toward superstition-driven narratives in politics.

He concluded by asserting that for Maharashtra to progress as a modern state, it must eliminate the influence of fraudulent spiritual leaders and ensure strict enforcement of the law.