Was Manikrao Kokate Hidden Under Police Protection? Sensational Allegation by a Prominent Leader

Prakash Ambedkar On Manikrao Kokate : Due to the irregularities in the housing case, Maharashtra's Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Manikrao Kokate is in big trouble. In this case, the Nashik Sessions Court has issued an arrest warrant against him, increasing the likelihood of his arrest. These developments have raised the possibility of Kokate's ministerial position and MLA status being in jeopardy. Against this backdrop, Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi leader Prakash Ambedkar has reacted strongly.

Police themselves hid Kokate – Prakash Ambedkar

While speaking in Kolhapur, Prakash Ambedkar made a serious allegation. He said, “If a minister cannot be found, what about the common man? It seems that the police themselves have hidden Kokate. There is suspicion that all this is happening according to the Chief Minister's instructions. If a two-year sentence is given, the right to vote is lost and no constitutional position can be held. Fadnavis should take responsibility to ensure that the court's order is not disrespected.”

Alliance with Other Parties Except BJP

While talking about municipal elections, Ambedkar clarified that there is a possibility of an alliance with all parties except BJP. Local leaders have been given the freedom to make decisions. He mentioned that discussions could also take place with the Shinde group in Thane. Criticizing Shiv Sena, he said that due to Shiv Sena going with MNS, many communities in Konkan have distanced themselves from Shiv Sena.

How did Manikrao Kokate get involved in controversy?

In 1995, the construction of the 'Prime Apartment' building was underway in the Canada Corner area of Nashik. At that time, under the Chief Minister's Housing Scheme, some houses were reserved for the government. These houses were given to needy citizens at concessional rates. However, Manikrao Kokate is accused of using fake documents to acquire four houses in his name from this quota.

This case was exposed by former minister Tukaram Dighole. Subsequently, the court found Kokate guilty and sentenced him to two years in prison. Kokate had appealed against this decision in the sessions court. However, on December 16, 2025, the court upheld the lower court's verdict. As a result, Kokate's legal troubles have increased further.