Maharashtra Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate has landed in controversy once again after a viral video allegedly showed him playing Junglee Rummy on his mobile phone during a legislative session. The video was shared on social media by NCP MLA Rohit Pawar, who claimed Kokate was playing the game inside the legislature, sparking public criticism and media attention.

In response, Kokate told ABP Majha that the clip is being misinterpreted. “I did not commit any sin,” he said. He clarified that he was watching the live stream of the Lower House proceedings on YouTube from the Upper House when an advertisement for Junglee Rummy appeared. “It took two or three seconds to skip the ad. Doesn’t everyone get such ads?” he questioned.

Kokate firmly denied playing any game during the session, stating, “My work is transparent. Why would I waste time like that? I didn’t even notice the ad at first—I skipped it immediately.”

The minister alleged that political opponents are using the short video clip to tarnish his image, accusing them of ignoring the real work being done for farmers. “Why give so much importance to this? Nobody talks about the progress we are making,” he said. He also took a swipe at Rohit Pawar, saying, “Even his phone shows such ads. Does that mean he plays games too?”

Defending his record, Kokate emphasized that development work in the agriculture department is ongoing, and that such distractions won’t deter his commitment. “We are working at ground level for the benefit of farmers,” he added.

When asked about Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut’s claim that Union Home Minister Amit Shah plans to remove four ministers including Kokate, he dismissed the speculation, saying, “I haven’t received any such information. I don’t think Sanjay Raut knows anything concrete.”

As criticism continues, Kokate maintains his innocence and remains focused on his ministerial duties.