 Kunte was rumored to be one of Sanjay Gandhi's leading choices to be an "outsider" candidate for the Chief Ministership of Maharashtra, as part of his efforts to break up the monopoly of power then enjoyed by Western Maharashtra's sugar barons.Ironically, the Gandhis chose another Kulaba (Raigad) native, Abdul Rehman Antulay for the position.In addition to his ministerial position, served as Chairman, Bombay Housing Board (BMRDA), the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Board (MHADA) and the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC).