Rupali Chakankar Quits NCP Women's Wing Post as Ashok Kharat Scandal Continues to Widen

Rupali Chakankar has resigned as the women’s wing chief of the Nationalist Congress Party amid escalating controversy linked to the Ashok Kharat case. The move comes just a week after she stepped down as chairperson of the Maharashtra State Women’s Commission, highlighting mounting political pressure.

The developments follow Kharat’s arrest in Nashik on charges of sexual assault and rape, along with the circulation of photographs allegedly showing Chakankar’s proximity to him. The controversy had already drawn intervention from Devendra Fadnavis, who had directed her to resign from her government position earlier.

Announcing her resignation on social media, Chakankar denied any involvement, stating she had “no connection, direct or indirect” with Kharat’s alleged financial dealings or misconduct. She described the allegations as baseless and asserted that the truth would emerge through an impartial investigation.

Also Read: Chakankar Under Fire: Calls for Resignation Mount After Photos Surface with Arrested 'Astrologer'

Chakankar also said she had requested both the state leadership and police authorities ensure a fair probe. Her resignation from the party post reportedly followed a discussion with NCP president and Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar, after which she submitted a brief resignation letter.

Meanwhile, opposition leaders have intensified demands for the Special Investigation Team (SIT) to question Chakankar, particularly regarding alleged financial links to Kharat. Adding to the pressure, Sushma Andhare released more photographs purportedly showing Chakankar and Kharat in meetings with officials, further fuelling the political row.

The controversy has widened with the mention of Deepak Kesarkar in some of the images, though he has denied any association with Kharat. As the investigation progresses, the case continues to generate significant political and public attention in Maharashtra.

Also Read: Rekha Gupta Passes ₹1,03,700 Crore Delhi Budget, Accuses AAP of Financial Mismanagement