'I have a pen drive': Congress MLA Nana Patole alleges honeytrap in Mantralaya, Thane, Nashik; Eknath Shinde responds

The Maharashtra Assembly witnessed high drama on Thursday as Congress leader Nana Patole raised serious concerns over an alleged honeytrap scandal involving government officials, politicians, and ministers across Mantralaya, Nashik, and Thane.

Standing in the House, Patole claimed he possessed a pen drive with information related to the scandal but added, “I do not wish to malign the government.” Despite saying he wanted a formal statement from the Mahayuti government, his concerns were reportedly brushed aside, sparking protests from the Opposition for the second day in a row.

“This is not a small matter,” Patole said. “If government information lands in the hands of anti-national elements, it’s a matter of grave concern.”

Responding to the allegations, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde assured the Assembly, “We have taken this seriously and will look into it.” However, this did little to pacify the Opposition.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Bhaskar Jadhav slammed the state government for allegedly sending mixed signals. “Minister of State for Home Yogesh Kadam first said the matter was settled, now Shinde says a statement will be issued. What is the truth?” he asked.

Kadam later clarified that his earlier remarks were not linked to the alleged honeytrap case. But by then, the Opposition had had enough, they shouted slogans of “Honeytrap Sarkar” before staging a dramatic walkout.

Inputs from TOI