Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) president Sharad Pawar has unequivocally dismissed speculation about his nephew, Ajit Pawar, taking the helm as Chief Minister of Maharashtra. In a statement to reporters, the veteran politician declared that Ajit Pawar’s aspirations of becoming Chief Minister would remain a dream.
Ajit Pawar, a prominent political figure, had previously assumed the position of Deputy Chief Minister in July after a period of political turmoil, which saw him break away from the NCP and join the Shiv Sena-BJP government. However, Sharad Pawar, a key leader in Maharashtra politics, appears resolute in his assertion that Ajit Pawar will not reach the top post.
Sharad Pawar also commented on the broader political landscape, stating that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) does not hold power in approximately 70 percent of states in the country. He expressed confidence that Maharashtra would follow suit and see the BJP lose power.
Furthermore, Sharad Pawar voiced his belief that the Maha Vikas Aghadi coalition, comprising the Shiv Sena (UBT), NCP (Sharad Pawar group), and Congress, would regain control of Maharashtra following the 2024 elections. He pointed to the BJP’s history of forming governments in some states by attracting members from other political parties while acknowledging that it does not hold power in the majority of Indian states.
Regarding recent political developments, Sharad Pawar expressed positivity about Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi leader Prakash Ambedkar joining the Opposition’s INDIA grouping.
He also alluded to the dynamic nature of Maharashtra politics, mentioning that his former colleague, Chhagan Bhujbal, had once proposed Supriya Sule as the NCP president. However, Bhujbal himself has since switched allegiances to the other side.
Sharad Pawar concluded with a comment on the potential formation of a new political outfit by BJP leader Pankaja Munde, stating that such a move would likely garner significant support.
Sharad Pawar’s remarks provide insights into the evolving political landscape in Maharashtra and the ongoing shifts and realignments in the state’s political sphere.
Sources By Agencies