Sahitya Akademi Award-winning author Pradeep Kokare claims he was denied entry to the 99th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan in Satara because he was wearing a black shirt. Police cited security protocols due to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis's presence. Kokare argued that such a restriction is nonsensical and detrimental to democracy, suggesting organizers should have clearly stated dress code diktats. Satara Superintendent of Police Tushar Joshi confirmed that black clothing was disallowed as a precautionary measure following intelligence about potential black flag protests against the CM.