Kokate's conviction stay prompts public trust concerns

A Nashik sessions court has stayed the conviction of agriculture minister Manikrao Kokate, who was sentenced to two years in prison for document forgery related to a housing scheme for the poor. Opposition parties criticized the court's reasoning, arguing that it should focus on justice rather than potential election costs. They highlighted that Kokate's actions were a betrayal of public trust. Kokate was convicted on February 20 for cheating and forgery, involving fraudulent acquisition of flats meant for economically weaker sections. The court's stay allows him to remain in office while his appeals are considered.