India, April 8 -- Pornographic websites charging users to view sexually-explicit videos depicting self-styled godman Ashok Kharat have been taken down, in addition to over 450 social media accounts circulating these video clips.

These websites and social media accounts have been booked under sections 67 of the Information Technology Act, for publishing or transmitting obscene material in electronic form, said a police officer from the Maharashtra cyber police.

Kharat, who rubbed shoulders with senior political leaders in Maharashtra, including some ministers, was arrested on March 18 on charges of rape. Women he sexually assaulted and abused are still coming forward to file complaints. Kharat is also being investigated for money launder...