India, April 8 -- Self-styled godman-cum-astrologer Ashok Kharat allegedly sexually exploited women by claiming that he possessed "divine power" and would use it to cause the death of their family members or defame them if they didn't comply, according to investigators. He used the same modus operandi, conducted "rituals" and also used items like stones and tamarind seeds for intimidation and "divine invocation".

Kharat, currently in police custody, is facing 12 criminal cases in Ahilya Nagar and Nashik city, including eight for sexual assault. The SIT has recorded statements of 30 witnesses and victims so far, said IPS officer Tejaswi Satpute, who heads the SIT, on Tuesday.

"During questioning, it came to light that the accused exploit...