Key witness in Kharat case dies in accident:’Shivnika Trust’ director Jitendra Shelke with wife dead, son critical; question raised over timing

Leaders raise foul play angle as SIT probe and financial links face fresh questions Dr. Jitendra Shelke, Vice President of Bhondu Ashok Kharat’s Shivnika Trust, died in a road accident on Friday after his car rammed into the rear of a stationary container on the Samruddhi Expressway. The impact was severe, leaving Shelke and his wife Anuradha dead on the spot. Witness in Kharat case under probe Shelke was a key witness in the ongoing investigation into the Bhondu Ashok Kharat case, with the Special Investigation Team (SIT) having recorded his statement multiple times. His role in the probe has now triggered debate over whether the crash was purely accidental or linked to a larger conspiracy. Family en route to Shirdi According to preliminary information, Shelke was travelling with his family from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar to Shirdi around 1 pm when the accident occurred near Dhotre village. Their car crashed into a container parked along the roadside, with such force that it went underneath the vehicle and was completely crushed. Their son sustained serious injuries and has been admitted to a nearby hospital. Delay in rescue response The vehicle remained lodged under the container for a considerable period before authorities were alerted. Local residents and police later reached the spot and extricated Shelke, his wife, and their son from the wreckage. By then, Shelke and his wife had succumbed to their injuries, while their son was rescued in a critical condition. Close ties with Kharat Shelke was considered a trusted associate of Ashok Kharat and served as Vice President of Shivnika Trust. He had been questioned at least four times by the SIT and was believed to be under considerable stress following Kharat’s arrest. Kharat was also reportedly a partner in business ventures linked to Shelke, including ownership stakes in lawns. Political reactions raise suspicion Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) leader Sushma Andhare raised concerns over the circumstances of the accident, calling it “shocking” and “difficult to believe.” She pointed out that fears had recently been expressed regarding threats to individuals linked to the case. Andhare questioned whether there was an attempt to suppress critical information, adding that any delay in intensifying the investigation would deepen suspicion around the incident. Trust structure and internal disputes Shivnika Trust, led by Ashok Kharat, had reportedly received substantial donations over the years, aided by political and administrative support. However, disputes arose among trustees over incomplete projects, including a gaushala initiative, leading to multiple resignations. Currently, Kharat serves as President, Shelke was Vice President, while Kalpana Kharat is General Secretary. Other trustees include Rupali Chakankar, Subhash Game, Lalit Pophale, and Dr. Nandkishor Katore. ​