The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has obtained custody of self-styled godman Ashok Kharat in connection with an alleged ₹70 crore money laundering case, intensifying a major financial crime investigation that has drawn attention across Maharashtra. A special court granted the central agency custody of Kharat until May 26, allowing investigators additional time to probe suspected illegal financial transactions and trace the alleged flow of illicit funds.

According to officials associated with the investigation, the case revolves around accusations of large-scale financial irregularities, including alleged laundering of money through multiple channels and entities. The ED informed the court that custodial interrogation was necessary to uncover the broader network involved in the transactions, identify beneficiaries, and examine financial records linked to the accused.

Investigators believe the alleged money laundering operation involved the movement of substantial funds through bank accounts, shell entities, and suspicious financial dealings. Authorities are reportedly scrutinizing documents, digital evidence, and transaction trails to establish how the money was generated, transferred, and potentially concealed.

During court proceedings, the ED argued that the investigation was still at a critical stage and that further questioning of Kharat was essential to determine the extent of the alleged economic offences. The agency also stated that several financial links and associated individuals remain under examination. 

The defence, meanwhile, opposed the demand for extended custody and raised objections regarding the allegations. However, after hearing submissions from both sides, the court permitted the ED to retain custody of the accused until May 26 for continued investigation.

Sources familiar with the matter indicated that investigators are examining whether funds collected through various activities were diverted into unlawful channels. Officials are also attempting to determine whether additional assets were acquired using proceeds allegedly generated through illegal means.

The case has attracted considerable public attention due to the profile of the accused and the scale of the alleged financial transactions involved. Economic offences of this magnitude often involve extensive forensic audits, cross-verification of financial statements, and coordination between multiple investigative agencies.

The ED’s probe is being conducted under provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), a law aimed at combating financial crimes and preventing the circulation of illegally obtained wealth through legitimate financial systems. Under the Act, authorities are empowered to investigate suspected laundering activities, attach assets believed to be linked to criminal proceeds, and prosecute individuals found involved in such offences.

Officials have not ruled out the possibility of additional arrests or summonses as the investigation progresses. Investigators are expected to continue analysing financial records and questioning individuals connected to the case in the coming days.

The matter is likely to remain under close scrutiny as the investigation advances and more details emerge regarding the alleged ₹70 crore laundering network and the role of those associated with it.