'Remove Manikrao Kokate': Maharashtra Congress president attacks minister's actions in Assembly

Maharashtra Congress president Harshvardhan Sapkal on Tuesday criticised what he called the ruin of the state's rich political tradition and culture by the Devendra Fadnavis-led government, when asked about State Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate's recent actions in the Legislative Assembly. 

"The ministers in Fadnavis’ cabinet seem like a collection of rare specimens: each one a ‘gem’ in his own way," he said, specifically calling out Kokate for "crossing all limits" by calling the government a 'beggar'.

"A minister like him should not be retained in office even for a minute. Then why is the Chief Minister backing him? Does Fadnavis not have the courage to sack Kokate?' Sapkal questioned.

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He also criticised Kokate playing online rummy on his mobile phone in the Legislative Assembly—as seen in videos circulating across social media.

"Farmers are struggling, compensation for losses due to unseasonal rains has not been given, crops are not fetching fair prices, loan waivers are still pending despite being promised, and some regions are facing the crisis of re-sowing due to failed crops. Amidst all these challenges, Kokate’s actions and irresponsible remarks show his utter lack of seriousness," Sapkal said.

He went on to criticise Kokate's alleged lack of respect for not only the government—with the 'beggar' remark—but also for CM Fadnavis.

"Such an insolent minister should be immediately shown the door, but since that hasn’t happened, it suggests that Fadnavis is somehow helpless or constrained. Regardless of the reason, such individuals tarnish Maharashtra’s image—at least care for that, the Maharashtra Congress president urged.

Sapkal further added that by repeatedly making controversial statements, Manikrao Kokate had also discredited the dignity of his ministerial office.

"A person like him remaining in a ministerial post is neither in the interest of the state nor the farmers," stated Sapkal, amid the "alarming" rate of farmer suicides in Maharashtra. He added that Kokate was to be removed from his position immediately, and sent home with a coconut (a traditional symbolic farewell).

India