A new controversy is shaking Maharashtra politics after a video surfaced online allegedly showing Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) leader and state minister Sanjay Shirsat sitting in what appears to be his bedroom with a bag full of cash next to him. The footage also shows the minister smoking a cigarette, dressed casually, and accompanied by a dog.

The viral clip quickly gained political traction, especially since it appeared shortly after the Income Tax Department issued a notice to Shirsat, reportedly over a substantial rise in his assets between 2019 and 2024. The minister from Aurangabad (West) confirmed receiving the notice, saying he had requested additional time to respond and was in the process of preparing an explanation.

Shirsat, addressing the media, denied any wrongdoing. He stated, “Some people had a problem with me, but I will answer them… The system is doing its work and I have no problem with it. I am not under any pressure.” He claimed the bag contained clothes, not cash, and alleged that someone secretly recorded him during a private moment after returning from a trip.

Raut Slams Govt Over Viral Clip

The video was posted on X by Sanjay Raut, a senior MP from the rival Shiv Sena (UBT). Raut used the footage to criticise the ruling coalition, writing, “This thrilling video should be watched by the honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah! What’s going on in the country!” In another post, he slammed Maharashtra’s Chief Minister, stating, “Helplessness has another name – Fadnavis!”

Amid growing political pressure, Shirsat clarified that he has consulted with his chartered accountant and would soon submit a detailed reply to the tax authorities. He attributed the situation to political vendetta and maintained that there was no illegal activity involved.

The controversy deepened when Aaditya Thackeray joined the criticism. Referring to the cash-filled bag visible in the clip, he questioned the source of the money and whether any action would be taken by either the state government or tax officials. “Where did this money come from? Who is handing out these bundles? Can anyone move around so freely with this kind of cash?” he asked, also referencing the widely discussed “50 khokhe” (slang for boxes of cash) narrative.

Shirsat’s Money Joke Sparks Buzz

In a recent speech at a public function, Shirsat appeared to make light of the issue, joking, “Now, black money is not going to be useful. I am speaking for myself… It is easy to earn money, but using it has become difficult.” He later claimed the remarks were made in a humorous context and should not be interpreted as an admission.

Earlier, Shirsat had mentioned that Shrikant Shinde, the son of Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, had also been served an income tax notice. However, he later retracted that claim, saying it was based on a miscommunication during a media interaction.

Meanwhile, the ruling alliance faced further criticism over a separate issue involving Sanjay Gaikwad, another Shiv Sena MLA. Gaikwad is under fire after allegedly assaulting a canteen worker over the quality of food served. Though CM Devendra Fadnavis condemned Gaikwad’s actions, opposition parties are demanding tougher consequences.

As pressure mounts, both the viral video and the tax scrutiny against Shirsat have become the latest flashpoints in Maharashtra’s ongoing political tension. The situation is being closely watched by both rivals and allies, with many expecting further developments in the days ahead.