The Maharashtra social justice department is under scrutiny for organizing a two-day workshop for over 50 officials at the Ikshana Resort and Spa in Lonavala, which reportedly cost ₹20 lakh ($24,000 USD). This decision has drawn backlash as state guidelines mandate that such training programs should occur at government-run facilities, not luxury resorts. Social justice minister Sanjay Shirsat defended the workshop, arguing that if other officials can travel abroad for training, then a resort setting is justified. However, social activists and opposition leaders, including Maharashtra Congress general secretary Sachin Sawant, have criticized the decision, calling for an administrative and financial audit of the Babasaheb Ambedkar Research and Training Institute (BARTI), which organized the event. They argue that the spending is inappropriate given the current economic climate and demand accountability for the alleged breach of protocol. The controversy highlights ongoing concerns about government spending and adherence to established guidelines.