Senior NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal has expressed unhappiness over not being allotted a ministerial berth in the Mahayuti government. He has shared his displeasure through media interactions on several occasions. The NCP has secured two ministerial positions from Nashik district: Dindori MLA Narhari Zirwal has been given the Food and Drug Administration portfolio, while Sinnar MLA Manikrao Kokate has been assigned the Agriculture department.
Bhujbal had anticipated receiving a ministerial position but was overlooked in favour of Kokate, leading to his dissatisfaction. Meanwhile, Kokate, buoyed by his ministerial role, has reportedly taken repeated jabs at Bhujbal.
During a press interaction in Pune yesterday, Kokate remarked, “The party has pampered Chhagan Bhujbal a lot. How much more should he be pampered?” He further clarified his allegiance, stating, “My leaders are Ajit Pawar and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, no one else.”
Responding to Kokate’s comments, Bhujbal told reporters, “I want to remind Manikrao Kokate that I am a founding member of the NCP along with Sharad Pawar. Kokate is an outsider who wasn’t even in the NCP five years ago. At that time, when I approached Sharad Pawar, he was hesitant to accept Kokate into the party. However, I persuaded him to do so. You joined yesterday; what right do you have to speak to me like this? The party and I will handle it,” Bhujbal retorted.
