Political Shuffle: Kokate Swap Sparks Debate

Maharashtra's political landscape witnessed a reshuffle as minister Manikrao Kokate, recently embroiled in controversy for playing an online game during a legislative session, was reassigned by the state government. The incident had sparked a debate over professional conduct within the legislative council.

The latest update sees Kokate, a member of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), losing his agriculture portfolio and being appointed as the new sports and youth welfare minister. This strategic move reflects the government's response to the heightened attention surrounding Kokate's public behavior.

As part of the reshuffle, Dattatrey Bharne, the current sports minister, will now take charge of the agriculture ministry. Additionally, Kokate will oversee the minority development and Auqaf departments, according to an official notification from the General Administration Department (GAD). Observers believe these changes point to the government's intent to stabilize its leadership amid unfolding controversies.

(With inputs from agencies.)