Daijiworld Media Network - Kolhapur
Kolhapur, Apr 3: Maharashtra Health Minister Prakash Abitkar has said that the upcoming Gokul election in Kolhapur district will be contested under the Mahayuti alliance, as has been the practice in previous elections.
Speaking to the media in Kolhapur, Abitkar said the list of eligible and ineligible institutions is expected within the next week, after which the alliance will formally prepare for the polls. He added that ongoing activities around the election are part of the political process.
Referring to recent remarks about “invisible forces”, he said only those who made such claims would know their context.
Abitkar also clarified that public representatives often interact with many people and should not be unnecessarily linked to unrelated incidents. “People should bow only before God,” he said, cautioning against individuals portraying themselves as divine figures.
He mentioned that several individuals like Ashok Kharat require caution from both public representatives and the media. He also defended Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, stating that Shinde would never support any wrongdoing.
On the Ashok Kharat matter, Abitkar said an inquiry is underway and strict action will be taken against those found guilty, including those involved in distributing illegal medicines.
Reacting to issues related to the PCPNDT Act, he said the government has strengthened enforcement by increasing incentives for informants and decoys. Hospitals found violating the law could face deregistration, and the government is also considering stringent action, including invoking provisions similar to organised crime laws against offenders.
Commenting on the Bidri sex determination case, Abitkar said strict action will be taken against all involved as per rules. He stressed the need for awareness and said district and taluka-level committees are being activated to speed up action.
He added that such incidents tarnish the image of progressive Maharashtra and assured that stricter implementation of the law will be ensured in the coming period.