It's Govt Money, What's going from our fathers' pockets, Maha Min's Comment Sparks Outrage
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Nagpur/Akola: Maharashtra Social Justice Minister Sanjay Shirsat landed in a fresh controversy after a public statement in Akola on Saturday, where he appeared to downplay accountability over public funds.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Social Justice Bhavan, the Sena (Shinde) leader told the audience: "Ask for ₹5, ₹10, or even ₹15 crore for hostels or the social justice mandir. I'll approve it immediately. It's govt money… What's going from our fathers' pockets?"
The comment, captured on video and now viral, sparked fierce backlash from opposition parties who accused the minister of displaying a cavalier attitude toward public resources.
Eyewitnesses said those in attendance, including BJP MLA Harish Pimpale, NCP MLA Amol Mitkari, and Congress leader Sajid Khan Pathan were stunned into silence by his remark.
Shirsat later attempted to clarify, stating the media distorted the context. "I encouraged people to avail funds under govt schemes. I said this money belongs to the people — it's not anyone's personal wealth. It should be used for welfare," he told TOI.
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At the Akola event, he stirred discontent by taking a jibe at NCP's Mitkari from the same stage: "Mitkari, you're giving the media good TRP. But don't talk too much, or you'll suffer the same fate as us."
This isn't the first time Shirsat courted controversy. On July 11, a video surfaced showing the minister seated beside a partially unzipped bag appearing to contain cash bundles. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut had shared the video on X, tagging Union home minister Amit Shah and demanding action.
Shirsat dismissed the allegation, claiming the bag merely contained clothes.
The controversy deepens as Shirsat's financial declarations also came under scrutiny. His assets reportedly jumped from ₹3.3 crore in 2019 to ₹35 crore in 2024. The Income Tax Department sought clarification over this nearly tenfold increase.
As calls for an apology grow, opposition leaders argue that Shirsat's remarks reflect an alarming disregard for transparency and fiscal responsibility, especially coming from a cabinet minister. Despite CM Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CM Eknath Shinde urging ministers to avoid controversial statements, political storms continue to cloud the Mahayuti govt's messaging.
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