The issue escalated after Rupali Chakankar resigned as Chairperson of the Maharashtra State Commission for Women. Her resignation came on the directions of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, amid allegations of her association with Ashok Kharat

Varsha Gaikwad said names of certain ministers and officials have surfaced in connection with Ashok Kharat and sought strict action against anyone who may have attempted to shield him. She also demanded that the names of ministers who visited Kharat be made public