Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena chief Eknath Shinde strongly defended minister Yogesh Kadam. Authorities accused Kadam of being linked to a dance bar in Kandivali and illegal sand mining in Dapoli.

While addressing the crowd at the inauguration of the renovated Minatai Thackeray Cultural Centre in Khed taluka, Shinde directly responded to the charges. He clearly dismissed them and pledged full support.
“Yogesh has no need to worry about these accusations. Shiv Sena and I are firmly with him. He is a dedicated worker, and making baseless allegations or demanding resignation is absolutely wrong,” Shinde said.

Shinde slams opposition for political attacks

At the same event, Shinde criticised his political rivals. He blamed them for spreading lies and trying to divert public attention.
“Those who themselves are looters are now calling others thieves. This won't work. Our focus is on development, and we will continue on that path. No matter what conspiracies are played, the Kadam family will always stand strong for the people,” he declared.

Moreover, Shinde’s comments came during a celebration marking the 73rd birthday of Ramdas Kadam, Yogesh Kadam’s father and a senior Shiv Sena leader.

Yogesh Kadam denies wrongdoing

Meanwhile, Yogesh Kadam reacted emotionally to the controversy. He strongly denied the accusations and promised to continue his father’s clean political legacy.
“I have never been involved in any wrongdoing, and I never will be. In my father's over 30 years of public life, there was not a single allegation of corruption. I am committed to that legacy,” he said.

According to him, the allegations are not only false but also part of a bigger attempt to discredit him and his family.

Ramdas Kadam questions assembly procedures

In response to the accusations, Ramdas Kadam raised concerns over how they were introduced in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly. He said the opposition ignored proper parliamentary procedure.
“Was this part of a larger plot to malign the ministers in Shinde's cabinet?” he asked. He also pointed out that no official notice was submitted under Rule 35, which is required before raising such issues.

Shiv Sena leaders show unity

Despite the growing controversy, the Shinde-led Shiv Sena continues to support Yogesh Kadam. Both Kadam and his father remain confident that the truth will prevail.

As political tension builds, the party has chosen to stay focused on its development agenda. Shinde and his team believe that strong leadership and unity will help them counter any conspiracy.
Ultimately, they stand together, determined to defend their ministers and reputation.