Representative image of criminal in jail (rawpixel)
On February 20, 2025, the Nashik district court sentenced Manikrao Kokate and his brother to two years of imprisonment and imposed a fine of ₹50,000 each for submitting fake documents to acquire flats under the government’s discretionary quota. The outcome of this appeal could significantly impact not only Kokate'stheir income status to qualify for housing meant for the Low Income Group (LIG). The complaint was originally filed by former minister T.S. Dighole, who accused them of fraud.
The prosecution argued that the Kokate brothers falsely claimed they belonged to the LIG category and did not own any property in Nashik. This deception enabled them to secure two flats in the Yeolakar Mala area under the chief minister's 10% discretionary quota. Following an investigation initiated by Dighole's complaint, charges were filed against them under various sections of the Indian Penal Code related to cheating and forgery.
The outcome of this appeal could significantly impact not only Kokate'sconcerns about his position as an MLA. If he fails to obtain relief from the High Court, he may face disqualification from his legislative role. After the verdict was announced, Kokate expressed his intention to appeal the decision and claimed that the case stemmed from political rivalry with Dighole. “We will do everything in accordance with the law,” he stated while addressing reporters.
The ruling has drawn mixed reactions from the public and political circles. Supporters of Kokate have alleged that he is a victim of political vendetta. Meanwhile, members of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) have called for his resignation following this legal setback. This incident adds to a series of controversies surrounding Kokate and other NCP leaders within the BJP-led state government.
As Manikrao Kokate navigates this legal turmoil and prepares for an appeal against his conviction, this case highlights ongoing issues of corruption and accountability within Maharashtra's political landscape. The outcome of this appeal could significantly impact not only Kokate's career but also public trust in the state's governance as it grapples with allegations of misconduct among its leaders.
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