Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai

Nashik, Feb 20: Maharashtra Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate and his brother Vijay Kokate have been sentenced to two years in prison and fined Rs 50,000 each by the Nashik district court. The conviction stems from a case involving the embezzlement of government-provided flats under the Chief Minister’s quota, using fraudulent documents.

The verdict jeopardizes Kokate's position as a member of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly and his ministerial role. Kokate, who was elected by the Ajit Pawar-led NCP from the Sinnar Assembly constituency in Nashik, has yet to comment on the ruling.

Anand Paranjape, Maharashtra's chief spokesperson for the NCP, stated that Kokate would be appealing the decision in the Bombay High Court.

Under the Chief Minister’s quota, flats are allocated to low-income individuals at reduced rates, provided they submit an affidavit and necessary documents affirming they do not own any other property. Kokate and his brother Vijay allegedly obtained two flats in the Nirman View Apartment complex at Canada Corner in Nashik city in 1995 and 1997 by submitting fake documents. Further investigation revealed that the Kokate brothers were also occupying two additional flats, which had been allocated to others.

The case was registered by the Sarkarwada police station after an inquiry by the then Additional District Collector, under sections 420, 465, 471, and 47 of the Indian Penal Code. The complaint was initially filed by former Minister Tukaram Dighole.

During the lengthy trial, the court found two other accused in the case not guilty due to a lack of evidence. Government prosecutor Advocate Poonam Ghodke represented the state in the proceedings.

Political analysts suggest that Kokate may seek a high court review of the district court’s decision. According to current regulations, public representatives sentenced to two or more years in prison could lose their legislative and ministerial positions.