Controversy Erupts Over Rummy-Playing Minister
State Congress chief Harshwardhan Sapkal censured the BJP-led Maharashtra government for awarding the sports portfolio to a minister caught playing rummy during a legislative session. Criticisms extended to alleged judicial interference and resource misallocations, highlighting perceived governmental hypocrisy and opportunism amidst party desertions.

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The BJP-led Maharashtra government is under fire as state Congress chief Harshwardhan Sapkal criticized the decision to hand the sports portfolio to Manikrao Kokate. The minister, previously under scrutiny for playing rummy on his phone during a legislative session, received a promotion instead of consequences.
Sapkal lambasted the government, claiming the affair reveals a 'hypocrisy and moral failure.' His criticisms extended to the 2008 Malegaon blast case verdict, alleging premature declarations by Amit Shah, and critiquing Chief Minister Fadnavis for biased commentary on judicial outcomes.
Echoing discontent, Sapkal accused the government of misusing welfare funds and reshaping state politics unconstitutionally. He also addressed recent desertions from Congress as opportunistic, asserting that ideological commitment, not personal gain, sustains the party.
(With inputs from agencies.)