Manikrao Kokate Resigns as NCP Minister Amid EWS Housing Scheme Scam Controversy

NCP minister Manikrao Kokate has resigned from his post amid the EWS housing scheme scam controversy in Nashik, marking a major political shift in Maharashtra.

Nashik, December 19, 2025 – Nashik is witnessing a major political development after Nationalist Congress Party leader Manikrao Kokate resigned from his ministerial position in connection with a growing controversy involving the economically weaker section housing scheme. The move comes amid intense public scrutiny and mounting allegations about irregularities in the implementation of the housing scheme, which has been a focus of criticism and investigation in recent weeks

Kokate submitted his resignation to senior leaders as pressure intensified on the government to respond to accusations of mismanagement and possible corruption related to the scheme. The NCP leadership accepted his decision, which was presented as a step aimed at ensuring that investigations and inquiries proceed without political interference. Kokate also issued a statement emphasising his commitment to transparency, saying he would cooperate with authorities to address all aspects of the matter.

The EWS housing scheme, launched with the stated goal of providing affordable housing to low-income families, became controversial after allegations emerged about irregular allocations and procedural lapses. Critics alleged that benefits intended for the poorest segments were diverted or mishandled, prompting opposition parties and social activists to call for independent investigations. Questions raised include the criteria used for beneficiary selection and the oversight provided during project execution.

Kokate’s resignation adds a new turn to the ongoing political discourse in Nashik and across Maharashtra. Supporters say he stepped down to uphold ethical standards and protect the integrity of the investigation. Critics, however, argue that his departure reflects the depth of concern about administrative lapses and the need for structural reforms in scheme implementation.

Legal experts say that resignations in the midst of controversy do not necessarily imply guilt but can facilitate more effective fact-finding by reducing perceptions of political pressure. Police and administrative agencies are continuing to collect evidence and interview witnesses as part of the broader inquiry into the housing scheme. Officials have also been reviewing project documentation and financial records as part of standard procedures in such cases.

The political impact of Kokate’s resignation is expected to ripple through local and state politics. Opposition parties have seized on the development to press for broader accountability measures and additional resignations if further irregularities are uncovered. They have intensified campaigns around governance transparency and citizen rights, themes that could shape voter sentiment ahead of upcoming local body elections.

Residents of Nashik have reacted with mixed emotions. Some applauded Kokate’s decision to step down, viewing it as an acknowledgment of responsibility and an opportunity for investigations to proceed unencumbered. Others expressed frustration, saying that long-term issues of corruption and implementation gaps require systemic change rather than individual resignations.

Political analysts say that the episode highlights the challenges governments face when public welfare schemes attract controversy. Ensuring that benefits reach intended recipients, maintaining transparent selection processes, and responding swiftly to allegations are seen as essential to sustaining public trust.

The NCP leadership has not yet announced a successor to Kokate’s ministerial role, but internal discussions are underway as party officials work to stabilise the political situation and reassure supporters. Local leaders emphasise continuity in service delivery, even as administrative adjustments take place.

For now, attention remains on how investigations progress and whether new information emerges that could further affect political alignments. Kokate’s resignation is likely to remain a key reference point in discussions about public accountability and governance reform in the state.

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