Rohit Pawar Targets Mahayuti Government Over Manikrao Kokate Housing Scam Case
Rohit Pawar
NCP leader Rohit Pawar criticised the Mahayuti government over the Manikrao Kokate housing scam case in Nashik, raising questions on accountability and ethics.
Nashik, December 16, 2025 – Nationalist Congress Party leader Rohit Pawar has launched a sharp attack on the Mahayuti government over the Manikrao Kokate housing scam case, intensifying political tensions in Maharashtra. Pawar questioned the government’s moral authority and accountability after a district court upheld a two-year jail sentence against minister Manikrao Kokate, calling the matter a serious blot on governance.
Speaking in Nashik, Rohit Pawar said the verdict has exposed what he described as the government’s double standards on corruption. He questioned how a minister facing conviction in a housing scam could continue to enjoy political protection. Pawar alleged that the Mahayuti alliance repeatedly speaks about transparency and clean governance, but fails to act when allegations involve its own leaders.
The NCP leader said the Kokate case is not just a legal issue but a reflection of how power is misused. According to him, ordinary citizens are punished swiftly for minor violations, while influential leaders receive prolonged political backing even after convictions. Pawar argued that such practices weaken public trust in the system.
Rohit Pawar also questioned the silence of senior leaders within the ruling alliance following the court’s decision. He said the government should clarify its stand on whether ethical standards apply equally to all, or only to political opponents. He demanded that Manikrao Kokate be immediately removed from any position of responsibility until the matter is fully resolved.
The criticism comes at a time when civic and local body elections are approaching, and corruption issues are expected to dominate political debates. Pawar claimed that the ruling alliance fears public backlash and is therefore avoiding decisive action. He said voters are closely watching how the government responds to such cases.
Reacting to Pawar’s statements, leaders from the ruling side dismissed the allegations as politically motivated. They said the legal process is still ongoing and that Kokate has the right to seek relief from higher courts. They accused the opposition of exploiting judicial matters for political gain ahead of elections.
Political analysts say the issue has the potential to become a major talking point in Nashik and surrounding regions. Housing-related cases often attract strong public reaction, especially when linked to influential figures. The verdict has already sparked debates on social media and among local residents.
Civil society members have also weighed in, saying the case highlights the need for stricter accountability mechanisms. They argue that public representatives must be held to higher ethical standards, regardless of political affiliation. Some groups have called for clear guidelines on the continuation of ministers facing convictions.
Rohit Pawar reiterated that his party would continue to raise the issue both inside and outside the legislature. He said the fight is not personal but about protecting democratic values and public interest. According to him, ignoring such cases sets a dangerous precedent and encourages further misuse of power.
As the political temperature rises, the Manikrao Kokate housing scam case is expected to remain in focus. The government’s response, or lack of it, may influence public perception in the coming months, especially as Maharashtra heads toward crucial elections.
