On February 13, 2026, Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration Minister Narhari Zirwal made a significant statement regarding the arrest of a clerk from his department on bribery charges. The clerk was apprehended by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) while allegedly accepting a bribe of ₹35,000 at the state secretariat, Mantralaya. This incident has raised serious concerns about corruption within the state government, prompting Zirwal to declare that he would resign if any link is established between him and the accused clerk.
During a press interaction in New Delhi, Zirwal emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “What has happened is serious. The accused will have to face the consequences.” He clarified that the clerk was responsible for preparing papers for departmental hearings and asserted his commitment to transparency and accountability in his role as a senior leader of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP).
- Bribery incident in Mantralaya — A clerk was caught accepting a bribe of ₹35,000.
- Zirwal's pledge to resign — He vowed to step down if any connection to the case is proved.
- Opposition's response — Congress demands accountability from the government.
The ACB's operation has sparked outrage among opposition parties, particularly the Congress, which has criticized the ruling BJP-led government for allowing corruption to permeate high levels of administration. Congress Mumbai president Varsha Gaikwad described the clerk's arrest as “shocking and shameful,” highlighting the alleged prevalence of bribery in the state secretariat.
Gaikwad and other Congress leaders have called for a thorough investigation into the matter, questioning whether the bribery incident is an isolated case or indicative of a broader culture of corruption within the government. They have urged Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to disclose details of the case and take decisive action against implicated officials, asserting that no work should require a bribe.
This incident reflects growing concerns about governance and accountability in Maharashtra, as the opposition continues to push for reforms aimed at eradicating corruption at all levels. The situation demands immediate attention to restore public trust in the government and its institutions.
