Pune: A major political controversy has erupted after a video allegedly showing Rupali Chakankar washing the feet of Ashok Kharat went viral on social media. The backlash has intensified as Kharat is currently under arrest in a rape and exploitation case.
The timing of the video has triggered widespread outrage, with critics questioning the conduct of Chakankar, who heads the Maharashtra State Commission for Women. Many have argued that such actions compromise the credibility of an institution meant to safeguard women’s rights, especially when the individual involved is facing serious criminal allegations.
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या महाराष्ट्र राज्य महिला आयोगाच्या अध्यक्षा आहेत.. या ज्यांचे पाय धुवत आहेत त्यांच्यावर बलात्काराचा आरोप आहे! या गुरुजींकडे इतर महिलांचे व्हिडिओ आढळले.अशा लोकांचे पाय धुणाऱ्या महिलांना न्याय देऊ शकणार नाही! किमान पदावर दूर होण्याचे सौजन्य दाखवा…जनाची नाहीतर मनाची तरी…… pic.twitter.com/qFc5VO7PB3
— Rashmi Puranik (@Marathi_Rash) March 18, 2026
The controversy has now taken a political turn, with opposition leaders and social media users demanding accountability. Questions are being raised over whether Chakankar will step down from her post. “Will Rupali Chakankar give her resignation now?” has become a key point of debate online.
The issue has also put the spotlight on the Nationalist Congress Party leadership. Political circles are asking whether Sunil Tatkare will take action and remove her from the position. At the same time, questions are being directed at Sharad Pawar’s party, with critics asking if the party will respond to the growing controversy and public sentiment.
Adding to the outrage are reports that multiple objectionable videos involving women were allegedly recovered during the police investigation into Kharat, further intensifying scrutiny around those associated with him.
So far, Chakankar has not issued any official statement regarding the viral video. Meanwhile, the investigation against Kharat is ongoing, with authorities examining digital evidence and possible links to other victims.
The incident has sparked a larger debate on accountability, ethics, and the responsibility of public office bearers, particularly those holding positions related to women’s welfare and justice.