In August 2024, Rohit Arya had protested against Maharashtra School Education Minister Deepak Kesarkar, alleging that the government had ignored his contribution and withheld his payment and recognition for the project — ‘Majhi Shala, Sundar Shala’ (My School, Beautiful School) — that he claimed he conceptualised. He accused the state government of using his design and campaign materials without credit.

During the 12-day protest, Arya collapsed due to seizures and had to be hospitalised. Following the protest, Arya had claimed that on August 3, 2024, Kesarkar had personally met him, acknowledged his expectations, and also promised to resolve the issue. Trusting the minister, Arya ended his fast. However, when no action followed, he resumed his agitation. He later claimed that officials cited a pending departmental inquiry as an excuse for non-payment.