Maharashtra Governor Transfers Ministerial Responsibilities Following Conviction

Governor's Decision on Ministerial Duties

On Wednesday, Acharya Devvrat, the Governor of Maharashtra, assigned the ministerial responsibilities of Manikrao Kokate, a member of the NCP cabinet found guilty of fraud, to Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar.

A court in Nashik convicted Kokate in a fraud and forgery case dating back to 1995, sentencing him to two years in prison. This case is linked to the state government's housing scheme.

Kokate is a prominent leader of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP).

In a letter addressed to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Governor Devvrat acknowledged receipt of a letter dated December 17, 2025, in which Fadnavis recommended that the responsibilities for the Ministry of Sports and Youth Welfare, Minority Development, and Waqf held by Kokate be transferred to Ajit Pawar.

The Governor stated, 'I hereby give my approval to your aforementioned recommendation.' Consequently, Kokate is now left without any departmental responsibilities.

Meanwhile, sources have reported that Kokate has been admitted to Lilavati Hospital in suburban Bandra due to complaints of chest pain and discomfort. According to police, he is currently receiving treatment in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the hospital.