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Fadnavis Orders Verification of Zirwal Video

He signaled action pending a probe, citing the minister’s claim that the clips were doctored for blackmail.

Overview

  • Fadnavis, who spoke Friday, said the government will verify the videos and asked Narhari Zirwal to file a complaint so investigators can test their authenticity.
  • Zirwal denied wrongdoing, calling the footage stitched together for blackmail and saying he has known the trans person for about five years.
  • Congress and activists demanded his removal, while NCP leaders signaled they will wait for the probe rather than seek his resignation now.
  • Reports identify the person as Pawan Yadav, described as the state’s first transgender lawyer, and a relative has alleged extortion as outlets note the video has not been verified.
  • The row follows a February Anti-Corruption Bureau arrest of an FDA clerk in a bribery case and adds pressure on the Ajit Pawar–led NCP after recent resignations and the Ashok Kharat case.