Mumbai, February 23 (NationPress) - Maharashtra's Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has declared that State Food and Drug Administration Minister Narhari Zirwal's name has not been mentioned in connection with the ongoing investigation into bribery involving his Private Secretary Ramdas Gade and clerk Deringe.

During a press conference on Sunday, the Chief Minister stated, "The clerk requested money. After his apprehension, disciplinary measures were taken against his superiors; this is why the Private Secretary was reassigned. However, throughout this case, Minister Narhari Zirwal's name has not emerged in any evidence or discussions. If his name had surfaced, the Maharashtra government would have unequivocally demanded Zirwal's resignation as well."

The Chief Minister's remarks came after the customary tea and Cabinet meeting held before the commencement of the State Legislature's Budget session on Monday.

A serious bribery scandal has surfaced within the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) department located in the Mantralaya.

Narhari Zirwal is the Cabinet Minister overseeing this department.

Allegations have been directed at Zirwal's personal assistant, Ramdas Gade, and a clerk identified as Deringe.

In light of the revelations, the state government finds itself under significant pressure.

There are increasing calls for Minister Zirwal's resignation.

In response to these demands, CM Fadnavis has effectively provided Minister Zirwal with a "clean chit".

When questioned about the possibility of Minister Zirwal facing investigation, considering that the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) operates in the Mantralaya and has apprehended clerks while transferring Secretaries to different departments, CM Fadnavis explained, "The ACB only acts when substantial evidence is available. They execute a sting operation only after thorough groundwork is laid. Conversations are documented, and every detail of the corrupt act is recorded. Action is taken against those whose names appear in these records and against whom direct evidence exists."

The Chief Minister also highlighted the implications for the state government's image.

"Whether corruption occurs in the Mantralaya or a Tehsil office, it inevitably tarnishes the government's image. It is never a source of pride for the state government when any official engages in bribery," he remarked.

He emphasized that the state government has adopted a policy of zero tolerance toward corruption.

"We have issued explicit directives to take stringent action if money is being extorted from the public," he added.

Previously, opposition parties accused the state government of providing cover for Minister Zirwal amidst rising corruption in the current administration.