Ajit Pawar Asserts Political Autonomy: “Not Son of Sharad Pawar” in Shirur Rally Address
Shirur, 9th May 2024: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar emphasized that his political journey was not handed to him due to familial ties, he earned it. He stated, “As I am not the son of NCP (SP) head Sharad Pawar, I did not get political opportunities.”
Reflecting on the need for rejuvenation in politics, NCP leader Ajit Pawar advocated for inclusivity, stating, “Beyond the age of 80, it’s essential to pave the way for fresh faces.”
Regarding discussions with the BJP acknowledged by his uncle Sharad Pawar, Ajit Pawar clarified, “Acknowledging that talks took place is significant. I was personally privy to those discussions.”
In July of the previous year, Ajit Pawar and eight other Nationalist Congress Party MLAs aligned with the Eknath Shinde-BJP government in Maharashtra, leading to a fracture within the NCP established by Sharad Pawar (83).
Addressing a gathering in Shirur, Pune district, Ajit Pawar reflected, “Even at my age, should I not aspire for opportunities? Is it unjust to expect? That’s why emotions run high. Pawar saheb is revered, but every individual has their phase. After crossing 80, it’s apt to introduce fresh talent.”
He lamented, “Would I have been given the same chances if I were Sharad Pawar’s biological son? Undoubtedly, yes. The disparity due to lineage raises questions about fairness.”
Ajit Pawar campaigned for NCP’s Shirur Lok Sabha seat nominee Shivajirao Adhalrao Patil.
Baramati, in Pune district, stands as the stronghold of the Pawars.
In the Lok Sabha elections held on May 7, Ajit Pawar’s spouse contested from Baramati against his sister-in-law, NCP (SP) MP Supriya Sule, Sharad Pawar’s daughter.
Highlighting his contributions in Pune, Ajit Pawar emphasized, “I’ve diligently worked to empower Pune, securing control over the district cooperative bank and the Pune Zilla Parishad. Even Pimpri-Chinchwad, previously beyond our influence, witnessed transformation under our governance.”
He invited scrutiny of Baramati’s development under his leadership.
In discussions with reporters, Ajit Pawar addressed BJP minister Chandrakant Patil’s contentious remarks about defeating Sharad Pawar, cautioning against such rhetoric.
Expanding on Sharad Pawar’s statement about discussions with the BJP, Ajit Pawar queried, “If there was no inclination to align, why engage in talks? Six meetings were convened in Delhi with senior BJP leadership, witnessed by NCP’s Praful Patel and myself.”
Following deliberations in Mumbai, a decision to ally with the Shiv Sena was made, he disclosed.
Sharad Pawar had hinted at increased collaboration between regional parties and the Congress in the coming years in an interview with The Indian Express.
Reacting to this, Ajit Pawar remarked, “I’ve closely observed my uncle’s statements. Sometimes, they’re intended to sow confusion. Despite his mention of Uddhavji (Thackeray), I doubt he’ll merge his party with the Congress, given his distinct approach within the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government.”
Ajit Pawar recounted instances where Sharad Pawar’s decisions were presented as collective choices within the party, contrasting it with their divergent stance during the BJP-Shiv Sena government formation.
