Maharashtra Minister Vows to Sue Over Viral Rummy Video

Maharashtra Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate announced plans to sue opposition leaders for defamation after a video, shared by NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar and Jitendra Awhad, allegedly showed him playing ‘Junglee Rummy’ during the recent monsoon session of the state legislature. The video, which went viral on X, sparked outrage and calls for his resignation, with critics citing insensitivity amid a farmer suicide crisis.

Kokate, an NCP leader from the Ajit Pawar faction, denied the allegations, asserting he doesn’t know how to play online rummy. “I was trying to skip a pop-up ad that appeared for 10-15 seconds while checking YouTube for assembly proceedings,” he told reporters, noting that playing such games requires an OTP and linked bank account, which he claims his phone lacks. He accused the opposition of circulating an “incomplete video” to malign him.

The minister has urged Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Legislative Council Chairperson Ram Shinde to investigate. “If I’m found guilty, I’ll resign immediately,” Kokate stated, challenging the opposition’s narrative. He also plans to issue showcause notices to those who “defamed” him, emphasizing his 25-year tenure as an MLA and knowledge of legislative protocol.

Also Read: Congress Slams Maharashtra Govt Over Farmer Suicides, Minister’s Game Video

The controversy intensified after protests by Chhava Sanghatna, who demanded Kokate’s resignation, leading to clashes with NCP workers in Latur. Opposition leaders, including Supriya Sule, labeled Kokate’s actions an “insult to farmers,” citing 750 suicides in three months. Chief Minister Fadnavis expressed displeasure but supported Kokate’s claim that it was merely a notification. NCP chief Sunil Tatkare said Ajit Pawar would address the issue seriously.

Also Read: Congress Slams Maharashtra Govt Over Farmer Suicides, Minister’s Game Video