Fri Dec 19 07:37:14 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and news article based on the provided information:

Summary:

Maharashtra’s political scene is once again shaken up by the removal of Manikrao Kokate, a leader from the Ajit Pawar faction of the Nationalist Congress Party, from his position as the state’s Sports Minister. Kokate’s dismissal comes months after he was caught playing rummy on his phone during an Assembly session.

News Article:

Maharashtra Sports Minister Sacked After Rummy Controversy

Mumbai, India – Maharashtra’s political climate is experiencing renewed turbulence following the dismissal of Manikrao Kokate from his post as the state’s Sports Minister. Kokate, a prominent figure within the Ajit Pawar-led faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), was removed from his position, though no official explanation has been provided by the government.

The move comes months after Kokate was caught playing rummy on his mobile phone during a session of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, an incident that sparked widespread criticism and calls for his resignation. While no direct link between the incident and his sacking has been confirmed, it has been widely speculated that it may be a factor.

The dismissal raises further questions about the stability of the current Maharashtra government. The NCP split last year, which saw Ajit Pawar and several other members join the ruling coalition, has already created internal tensions. Kokate’s removal adds another layer of uncertainty to the political landscape.

The state government has yet to announce Kokate’s replacement. Opposition parties have already seized on the opportunity to criticize the government.

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