After a viral rummy video in the legislature, Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate faces criticism and resignation calls. His Shani Shingnapur visit sparked opposition attacks; a cabinet reshuffle is likely.
Nandurbar | July 26, 2025 — State Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate finds himself in hot water after a video of him playing rummy on his phone inside the legislature went viral. Facing mounting criticism and calls for resignation, Kokate today visited Shani Dev at Shani Shingnapur, a move that has drawn sharp political jabs.
Kokate, who is also the Guardian Minister of Nandurbar, is currently on a tour of the district. His sudden visit to the temple was seen as damage control, but opposition leader Rohit Pawar wasn’t impressed. Taking a dig, Pawar remarked, “Shani Maharaj never says, ‘Make mistakes, I will support you.’ Good people only remember Shani Dev after landing in trouble.”
In a pointed social media post, Rohit Pawar further taunted: “No matter how much oil ministers anoint on Shani Dev for selfish gains, I pray to Shani Maharaj to relieve the sufferings of the state’s farmers and oppressed communities.”
This controversy follows close on the heels of Kokate’s earlier statement about farmers, which had already sparked backlash. Now, with BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis reportedly expressing displeasure, pressure is building within the Ajit Pawar-led faction to take decisive action. Kokate’s resignation is being actively discussed, and a high-level meeting with Ajit Pawar is likely in the coming days.
Meanwhile, speculation is rife that Dhananjay Munde could be re-inducted into the cabinet to replace Kokate. When asked about the possibility of resignation, Kokate refused to comment, stating only that he would speak about it after returning to Mumbai.
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