‘Convicted, Hospitalised, Missing’ Maharashtra Sports Minister Manikrao Kokate Appeals in HC as Arrest Speculation Grows

Mumbai: The political future of Maharashtra Sports Minister Manikrao Kokate hangs in the balance as the Bombay High Court is set to take up his urgent appeal challenging a decades-old criminal conviction that has resurfaced with serious consequences. The High Court is expected to hear Kokate’s plea seeking protection from the effects of his conviction, a move that could determine whether he continues as a minister and legislator.

The case traces back to the mid-1990s but has returned to the spotlight after recent judicial developments confirmed a two-year jail sentence against Kokate in a cheating and forgery matter. The conviction relates to allegations that forged documents were used to secure residential flats under a government housing quota meant for eligible beneficiaries. Kokate’s brother was also found guilty in the same matter.

As legal pressure mounts, Kokate’s absence from court proceedings has drawn sharp reactions. Lawyers linked to the case claim that following the confirmation of the sentence, Kokate was required to appear before the sessions court and comply with procedural formalities. His failure to do so has prompted the complainant to move fresh applications seeking strict action, arguing that the minister is deliberately avoiding the judicial process.

Adding to the uncertainty, Kokate’s counsel has stated that the minister was hospitalised after complaining of ill health. According to the defence, his medical condition prevented him from remaining available during the critical phase of the case. However, this explanation has done little to quiet speculation around possible coercive action if the court is not satisfied with his conduct.

Kokate, a senior leader from the Ajit Pawar-led faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), represents the Sinnar constituency in Nashik district. His legal team has pressed for an urgent hearing before the High Court, warning that the conviction could automatically disqualify him as an MLA and force his exit from the state cabinet.

The High Court is expected to examine whether Kokate deserves interim protection from the conviction itself, not just the sentence. Legal experts note that a refusal to grant relief could have immediate political consequences, including loss of office and intensified enforcement measures.