Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai

Mumbai, Jul 26: Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction) Maharashtra unit chief Shashikant Shinde on Friday demanded the removal of Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate from the Devendra Fadnavis-led cabinet, following allegations that Kokate was playing rummy on his phone during a legislative session.

Kokate, however, denied the charge, claiming he was merely trying to swipe away a game advertisement while accessing the internet. But the controversy has sparked widespread protests across the state.

“If the government wants to salvage its image, especially amid criticism from farmers and the attack on Chhava Sanghatna activists, it must act and remove Kokate. If he doesn’t resign, the agitation will turn against the government,” Shinde warned.

The row intensified after Chhava Sanghatna activists, protesting against Kokate, threw playing cards at a press conference addressed by NCP leader Sunil Tatkare, leading to them being assaulted.

Shinde further claimed that complaints against several ministers have reached the Centre and hinted at a possible cabinet reshuffle. “The chief minister himself may be unhappy with some ministers. Action seems imminent,” he said.

On the alleged suicide of contractor Harshal Patil due to non-payment of dues under the Jal Jeevan Mission, Shinde said contractors across Maharashtra have been protesting for months over pending payments, yet the government has failed to respond.