Maharashtra Minister Faces Legal Battle and Political Heat

Maharashtra Sports Minister Manikrao Kokate challenges his conviction in a 1995 cheating and forgery case by the Bombay High Court. Facing potential loss of his cabinet post and assembly seat, the conviction has sparked political debate, with opposition demanding his dismissal and raising concerns of bias in legal proceedings.

Maharashtra Sports Minister Manikrao Kokate has moved the Bombay High Court, contesting a sessions court decision that upheld his conviction and a two-year jail term for a 1995 cheating and forgery case. This move comes amidst increasing pressure, as Kokate risks losing his cabinet post and assembly seat.

In a mounting legal challenge, Nashik district court issued an arrest warrant for Kokate. Represented by lawyer Aniket Nikam, Kokate's plea was mentioned before Justice R N Laddha of the High Court, emphasizing the urgency as his ministerial job is at stake. The High Court is set to consider the plea for suspending the conviction.

The case has ignited a political row, with opposition figures like Mumbai Congress president Varsha Gaikwad accusing the government of preferential treatment toward Kokate, compared to opposition leaders such as Rahul Gandhi. This development highlights ongoing concerns over political and legal accountability.

(With inputs from agencies.)