Hotel Auction Drama: Maharashtra Minister's Son Backs Out

The auction of a premier hotel in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar ended abruptly when the highest bidder, Siddhant Shirsat, failed to remit the required payment by the 4pm deadline on Friday.

The prized Vedant Nagar property had drawn significant attention, especially from opposition parties such as Shiv Sena, questioning the means of funds Shirsat, the son of Maharashtra's social justice minister, intended to use.

Following criticisms, Shirsat announced his withdrawal from the acquisition. Authorities have confirmed the auction will be initiated anew.

(With inputs from agencies.)