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 Shiv Sena neta told the audience: “Ask for Rs 5, Rs 10, or even Rs 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 towards public resources. Eyewitnesses said those in attendance, including BJP MLA Harish Pimpale, NCP MLA Amol Mitkari, and Congress neta 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.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. 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.
