Tue Feb 24 07:37:33 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Controversy Erupts Over Alleged Hasty Granting of Minority Status to Educational Institutions Following Ajit Pawar’s Death
The Story:
The Maharashtra Minority Development Department is facing scrutiny over the alleged rapid granting of minority status to 75 educational institutions in the days following the death of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on January 28, 2026. Pawar, who also headed the Minority Development Department, died in a plane crash. The Department has denied any irregularities, asserting that no files were digitally signed or certificates distributed on the day of Pawar’s death. This clarification comes after Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stayed the approvals, prompting an inquiry into the matter.
Key Points:
* Ajit Pawar, Deputy Chief Minister and head of the Minority Development Department, died in a plane crash on January 28, 2026.
* Allegations arose that 75 educational institutions were granted minority status shortly after his death.
* The Minority Development Department denies any wrongdoing, stating no digital signatures or certificates were issued on January 28, 2026.
* Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has stayed the approvals and ordered a high-level inquiry.
* Deputy Secretary Milind Padmanabh Shenoy was removed from his post.
* Sunetra Pawar, the new Minority Development Minister, has directed officials to probe the matter thoroughly.
Key Takeaways:
* The timing of the minority status grants raises suspicion and necessitates a thorough investigation.
* The controversy highlights the regulatory benefits associated with minority status for educational institutions, including exemptions from certain provisions of the Right to Education Act.
* The incident underscores the importance of transparency and adherence to due process in governmental procedures.
* The removal of the Deputy Secretary suggests the possibility of internal misconduct within the Minority Development Department.
* The swift action by Chief Minister Fadnavis indicates the seriousness with which the government is treating the allegations.
First Piper 