Maharashtra's political landscape is currently witnessing a heated controversy surrounding Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate, who is accused of playing online rummy on his mobile phone during the state's Monsoon Session. Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar faction) MLA Rohit Pawar ignited the controversy by posting a video clip on social media, alleging that Kokate was engrossed in the game during House proceedings.
The allegations quickly gained traction, with MLA Jitendra Awhad posting additional videos claiming Kokate was using the "Junglee Rummy" application in the Assembly. These accusations have sparked outrage, particularly considering the agrarian distress in Maharashtra, where an average of eight farmers reportedly commit suicide daily. Rohit Pawar criticized the government for its alleged inaction despite the pressing agricultural issues.
Kokate has vehemently denied the allegations, dismissing them as baseless and politically motivated. He claimed that a gaming advertisement popped up on his screen for a mere 10 to 15 seconds, and he was simply trying to close it. He stated that he does not know how to play online rummy, which requires OTPs and linked bank accounts, none of which are associated with his phone. Kokate has also threatened legal action against opposition MLAs for circulating what he claims is edited footage to defame him.
The controversy has prompted demands for Kokate's resignation, which he has rejected, questioning the basis for such calls. He challenged his critics to specify his crime, asking if he had made decisions against farmers, engaged in corruption, committed criminal acts, or had a criminal background.
Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has acknowledged the situation, confirming that the legislature will investigate the allegations. He also summoned Kokate to hear his side of the story before discussing the matter with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to decide on the appropriate course of action.
Adding fuel to the fire, Kokate has also drawn criticism for referring to the government as a "beggar" while attempting to clarify a previous statement about farmers. This remark has been deemed insensitive and inappropriate by Chief Minister Fadnavis and NCP (SP) MP Supriya Sule.
Kokate is no stranger to controversy. Earlier this year, he faced backlash for seemingly comparing farmers to beggars and admitting to a degree of corruption in government schemes. In February 2025, he and his brother were even sentenced to two years in prison by a Nashik court for submitting fake documents to obtain flats under a government quota, though he was later granted bail.
The current rummy controversy has intensified the pressure on the Mahayuti government. The legislative council chairman has ordered a probe into the incident, while opposition leaders are demanding Kokate's resignation. Despite the controversy, BJP leader Sudhir Mungantiwar has stated that no action can be taken against Kokate under the current laws.
As of July 30, 2025, Rohit Pawar has launched a fresh attack on the Maharashtra government, questioning its reluctance to take action against Kokate. Pawar alleges that Kokate played rummy for 18 to 22 minutes, contrary to initial claims, based on a probe report submitted to the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister.
