“No Political Interference in Kunbi Certificates; Process Follows Supreme Court Directives”: Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis

Mumbai, August 6: Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis clarified that the caste verification committee functions strictly in accordance with Supreme Court directives, reiterating that the state government exercises no political interference in its operations. The Chief Minister made these remarks in response to recent allegations leveled by activist Manoj Jarange Patil regarding the cancellation of Kunbi caste certificates.

Fadnavis explained that among the various certificate applications submitted to the caste verification committee, several are rejected due to incomplete documentation. He emphasized that this is not unique to Kunbi certificates, as 10% to 25% of applications across other OBC categories are also rejected for similar procedural deficiencies. Consequently, he refuted claims that Kunbi certificates were being deliberately canceled.

He further noted that legal avenues for appeal remain available for any applicant who feels aggrieved by a decision, and senior officials are empowered to review the entire process. Pointing out that certificates belonging to representatives from the ruling BJP have also been rejected by the verification committee in the past, he asserted that there is no scope for political influence in the process.

Awaiting Court Verdict on Doctors’ Strike

Addressing the ongoing doctors’ strike, Fadnavis expressed that strikes holding patients hostage are unacceptable. He stated that the state government is legally bound to comply with the directives of the High Court and will act in accordance with the court’s orders. He affirmed that the government maintains a uniform approach toward medical practitioners across all systems and has no intention of causing injustice to anyone.

Public Awareness and Strict Action to Curb Cyber Fraud

Fadnavis highlighted that cyber fraud is a nationwide concern rather than one limited to Maharashtra. The surge in digital transactions has led to a corresponding rise in cybercrime. In response to scams such as fake “digital arrests,” public awareness campaigns are actively being conducted. He stated that the central and state governments are jointly cracking down on cybercriminals. Relevant institutions have been instructed to implement additional firewalls, data audits, and robust cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive data. The Chief Minister added that concerted efforts are underway to apprehend cyber offenders and recover lost funds for citizens.