Has NCP Minister Manikrao Kokate Lost His Agriculture Portfolio?
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Synopsis
In a surprising turn of events, NCP Minister Manikrao Kokate has been stripped of his Agriculture Ministry role amid growing controversies. His recent rummy game video and disparaging remarks about the state government have raised eyebrows, prompting significant changes in the Maharashtra cabinet. Discover the unfolding drama and its implications for the state's leadership.
Key Takeaways
- Manikrao Kokate faced backlash for playing rummy in the Maharashtra State Council.
- He was removed from his position as Agriculture Minister due to ongoing controversies.
- Dattatray Bharne has taken over the Agriculture department.
- The NCP aims to maintain credibility by addressing public concerns swiftly.
- Deputy CM Ajit Pawar emphasized the importance of responsible conduct among ministers.
Mumbai, Aug 1 (NationPress) - Manikrao Kokate, a minister from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), has been relieved of his duties in the Agriculture department following backlash over his rummy game in the Maharashtra State Council and derogatory remarks about the state government, labeling it a 'beggar.' This decision, made on Thursday, aims to prevent further embarrassment to both the NCP and the BJP-led MahaYuti government.
Kokate will now oversee the departments of Youth, Sports, Minority Affairs, and Auqaf. Meanwhile, Dattatray Bharne, who previously managed Sports, Youth, Minority Affairs, and Auqaf, has been assigned the State Agriculture department.
The notification was issued late Thursday evening by Manisha Verma, the Additional Chief Secretary of the General Administration department. Earlier that day, Deputy Chief Minister and NCP Chief Ajit Pawar urged Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to implement these changes.
Kokate's involvement in a controversial rummy game gained significant media attention after a video surfaced on July 20. This incident led to demands from various farmer organizations and the opposition for his resignation, citing a lack of concern for farmers' issues. Protests were organized by the Chhava Sanghatana, especially after a senior leader, Vijaykumar Ghadge, was allegedly attacked following a card game involving state party Chief Sunil Tatkare.
In the aftermath, Deputy CM Pawar had to dismiss Suraj Chavan, the chief of the NCP youth wing, and publicly stated that the NCP does not endorse violence. Despite mounting pressure for Kokate's resignation, he remained defiant, arguing in a press conference that he had not committed any serious crime.
Kokate claimed he was not playing rummy but had accidentally recorded an advertisement while using his mobile device. He requested an inquiry from the Maharashtra State Council Chairman and Assembly Speaker, stating that he would resign if found guilty during the probe scheduled for the Winter session in Nagpur this December.
Nonetheless, Kokate faced criticism from Deputy CM Pawar, who advised him to refrain from controversial remarks that could tarnish the government's reputation. Kokate had previously made contentious statements regarding farmer crop insurance, suggesting that even 'beggars' wouldn't accept money, implying misuse of the government scheme.
Chief Minister Fadnavis later met with Cabinet Ministers following a weekly meeting, instructing them to prioritize their departmental responsibilities and avoid controversies. He warned that continued disruptive behavior would prompt necessary action against them.
(Sanjay Jog can be reached at sanjay.j@ians.in)
Point of View
This incident highlights the increasing scrutiny faced by politicians in today's media landscape. The removal of Kokate from the Agriculture Ministry reflects the accountability expected from public officials, especially in light of their conduct and statements. The NCP's swift action signals a commitment to maintaining its credibility and addressing public concerns regarding governance and transparency.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Manikrao Kokate removed from his position?
Manikrao Kokate was removed from his Agriculture Ministry role due to a controversy stemming from a rummy game video and his derogatory comments about the state government, prompting demands for his resignation.
What departments has Kokate been reassigned to?
He has been reassigned to oversee the departments of Youth, Sports, Minority Affairs, and Auqaf.
Who is the new minister in charge of Agriculture?
Dattatray Bharne, the previous Minister for Sports, Youth, Minority Affairs, and Auqaf, has been appointed as the new Agriculture Minister.
What was the public reaction to Kokate's comments?
There was significant backlash from opposition parties and farmer organizations, leading to protests and calls for Kokate's resignation due to his comments and behavior.
How did the Deputy Chief Minister respond to the controversy?
Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar reprimanded Kokate for his controversial statements and advised him to refrain from making remarks that could negatively impact the state's image.
