Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar. File Image | Photo credit: The Hindu
A day after Rupali Chakankar quit as the head of the Maharashtra Commission for Women over her connection with the alleged rape of a “man of God”, Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar on Saturday (March 21, 2026) said her resignation alone was not enough and demanded action against “big fish” linked to the accused.
He claimed that attempts are underway to protect influential people associated with self-proclaimed tycoon Ashok Kharat, who was arrested earlier this week in Nashik.
Facing flak from opposition parties over her association with Kharat, Ms Chakankar on Friday (March 20, 2026) tendered her resignation as Chairperson of the Maharashtra State Commission for Women to Deputy Chief Minister and NCP President Sunetra Pawar.
Speaking to reporters in Nagpur, Wadettiwar said Chakankar’s resignation alone was not enough and demanded a comprehensive probe into the entire episode, including the alleged links of ministers and others.
“The resignation has been submitted but action needs to be taken against the big fish involved. There are efforts to suppress the Kharat case and pressure is being put on the police during the investigation,” he claimed.
Mr. Wadettiwar said that as head of the State Women’s Panel, Ms. Chakankar was expected to champion the dignity and rights of women, but her alleged association with a “man of God” had raised serious concerns.
He further demanded that call detail records (CDRs) of all those in touch with Kharat, including ministers and other close associates, be examined.
“Given the vast wealth and patronage enjoyed by Kharat, it appears to be an effort to protect certain individuals,” he claimed.
Kharat, who claims to be a retired merchant navy officer and is known as “Captain”, has been visited by several political leaders over the years. He was arrested on Wednesday for allegedly sexually assaulting a woman for three years.
The Congress Legislature Party leader also slammed the state government, accusing it of failing to address issues concerning citizens and allowing “superstition-driven practices” to flourish.
Meanwhile, commenting on the political developments in Satara, where the BJP has bagged the posts of Zilla Parishad President and Vice President, Mr. Wadettiwar alleged that despite not having a majority, leaders aligned with Shiv Sena Minister Shambhuraj Desai were facing internal sabotage, reflecting dissension within the ruling alliance.
Published – 21 March 2026 12:50 PM IST
