Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday clarified that no evidence has emerged against State Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Minister Narhari Zirwal in connection with the ongoing bribery probe involving his office staff. He asserted that Zirwal’s name has not appeared in any official records, conversations, or evidence gathered so far, reported news agency IANS.
Probe limited to officials directly implicated, says CM
Addressing a press conference after the customary tea meeting and Cabinet discussions ahead of the Maharashtra Budget Session, Fadnavis said the investigation has so far been limited to specific individuals directly implicated in the case.
“The clerk demanded money, and once he was caught, action was initiated. Subsequently, his superior officers were also acted against, which led to the transfer of the Private Secretary. However, at no point has Minister Narhari Zirwal’s name surfaced in any evidence or recorded conversation. If it had, we would have certainly sought his resignation,” the Chief Minister stated, reported IANS.
ACB probe focuses on FDA staff, Mantralaya irregularities
The bribery case pertains to alleged irregularities within the FDA department at Mantralaya, where Zirwal serves as the Cabinet Minister. Allegations have been levelled against his personal assistant, Ramdas Gade, and a clerk identified as Deringe. The case came to light following an Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) operation, placing the state government under scrutiny and triggering political reactions.
Action based on evidence, opposition demands resignation
Responding to demands from opposition parties seeking Zirwal’s resignation, Fadnavis reiterated that action is strictly evidence-based. He explained that the ACB proceeds only after establishing concrete proof.
“The ACB lays traps only after thorough preparation. Conversations are recorded, and every aspect of the alleged corrupt transaction is documented. Action is taken strictly against those whose names appear in these records and against whom direct evidence exists,” he said, reported IANS.
Govt reiterates zero tolerance policy amid political row
Fadnavis also acknowledged the reputational damage such incidents cause to the government, regardless of where they occur.
“Whether corruption takes place in Mantralaya or at a tehsil office, it reflects poorly on the government. It is never a matter of pride when any official is found engaging in bribery,” he remarked, reported IANS.
Reaffirming the administration’s stance, the Chief Minister emphasised a policy of zero tolerance towards corruption. He said the government has issued clear directives to take strict action in cases where public officials are found extorting money from citizens.
Meanwhile, opposition parties have accused the government of attempting to shield Minister Zirwal and have raised concerns over what they describe as a rise in corruption under the current administration.
(With inputs from IANS)
