Pune, 9 October: In the backdrop of the upcoming Maharashtra assembly elections, political activities in the state have intensified. Discussions around seat-sharing continue within alliances, whether it’s the ruling “Mahayuti” coalition or the opposition MVA (Maha Vikas Aghadi). Amid this, Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has been leading his “Jan Sanman Yatra” across the state. During a recent event in Baramati, Ajit Pawar made a revelation that has become the talk of the town. He stated, “I consulted Sharad Pawar before taking my political stand.”
Ajit Pawar, during his speech, shared insights into his decision-making process. He said, “Sharad Pawar initially agreed to my political move, but later he expressed his disagreement. Ultimately, it’s his right to do so, as it is under his leadership that we all have grown.” This statement reflects the complex dynamics within the Pawar family and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP).
A Veiled Dig at Sharad Pawar?
While speaking at the event, Ajit Pawar also indirectly hinted at the growing divide within the family. “At that time, there was no trouble because we were united as a family. But now, there are two factions,” he remarked. This seems to point towards the current split within the NCP, with one faction supporting Sharad Pawar and the other led by Ajit Pawar. He further added, “At some point, everyone has to make a stop,” a subtle jab directed at his uncle, Sharad Pawar.
Accepting Past Mistakes
Ajit Pawar also acknowledged a mistake he made during the Lok Sabha elections when he fielded a candidate from his own family against his cousin, Supriya Sule, in Baramati. “It was my mistake to field a candidate against Supriya Sule in Baramati. I had accepted it back then, and I accept it now as well,” he admitted, reiterating his earlier stance.
Where Will Ajit Pawar Contest the Next Election?
As the 2024 assembly elections approach, speculations about where Ajit Pawar will contest have been rife. While there were hints that he might not contest from his traditional Baramati constituency, recent reports suggested that he could be eyeing the Shirur seat. However, on Tuesday, Ajit Pawar’s close aide and senior leader Praful Patel put an end to these speculations, confirming that Ajit Pawar will indeed contest from the Baramati constituency.
The internal rift within the Pawar family and the NCP continues to play out in the public eye, with Maharashtra politics witnessing a fascinating turn of events ahead of the elections.
