NASHIK: Former state women’s commission chairperson Rupali Chakankar was questioned for six hours on Sunday by the Special Investigation Team probing allegations of rape and extortion against jailed astrologer Ashok Kharat, officials said.Chakankar, who had resigned following the allegations, was questioned about her association with Kharat and her role as a trustee of the Shiwanika Trust headed by him. The questioning by the SIT led by Tejaswi Satpute took place at the Maharashtra Police Academy.“I have provided fitting answers to all questions raised by the SIT. I believe the inquiry committee must have been satisfied with the answers,” Chakankar told reporters later.Kharat was arrested on March 18 following a complaint lodged at the Sarkarwada police station. During the course of the probe, investigators found that Chakankar was associated with his trust while also holding key positions, including heading the state women’s commission and serving as president of the women’s wing of NCP.Sources in the SIT said the questioning could not be completed due to time constraints, and Chakankar is likely to be summoned again.“When the police want my cooperation in the inquiry, I will be there,” Chakankar said, adding, “You will come to know when the report is published,” in response to queries about the nature of questions posed to her.Investigators focused on multiple aspects, including how Chakankar came into contact with Kharat, the circumstances under which she joined the trust, and whether she was ever approached by alleged victims during her tenure.SIT officials also sought clarity on whether any political or financial favors were sought by Kharat, and whether Chakankar had any role or knowledge of such dealings.Responding to allegations that she may have shielded Kharat, Chakankar said, “There are many doubts in the minds of people. Answers to the relevant questions will emerge once the investigation is complete and the report is filed.”When asked about demands from politicians to name her as a co-accused, she said, “I have no knowledge regarding who said what about me or the investigation.”On questions regarding her links to certain cooperative credit society accounts, Chakankar said, “All those were shell accounts and at the end of the investigation everything will come out.”Officials clarified that Chakankar has not been named in any complaint linked to Kharat so far. The SIT continues its investigation to determine the extent of her association with the accused and any possible lapses.
