In an exclusive interview with India Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar shared insights about his political stance, the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections, and his alliance’s future plans. Here are the key takeaways:
On the Alliance and Politics of Maharashtra:
Ajit Pawar, who is confident about the victory of his alliance in the upcoming polls, stated that the ruling three-party alliance, which includes the NCP, BJP, and Shiv Sena led by Eknath Shinde, functions under a common minimum programme with a clear commitment to the state’s development. He emphasized that no single party can achieve an absolute majority in Maharashtra, citing the history of Maharashtra’s politics since 1985. This time, too, he believes that the state will not witness a single-party majority.
Predictions for the Election:
Ajit Pawar expressed confidence that his alliance, Mahayuti, would win 175 seats in the November 20 elections. He also firmly stated that he would win the Baramati seat by a margin of over 1 lakh votes, where he is contesting against his nephew, Yugendra Pawar, the NCP candidate backed by Sharad Pawar.
On His Relationship with Sharad Pawar and Supriya Sule:
Ajit Pawar made it clear that he does not have any bitter relations with his uncle, Sharad Pawar, or his cousin, Supriya Sule. He noted that while his relationship with them may have seen political differences, he remains in the same party, and the symbol of the NCP is still with him. Ajit also pointed out the uncertainty of Sharad Pawar’s political decisions, stating that even Supriya Sule cannot predict what Sharad Pawar might do.
On the Government and Opposition:
Ajit Pawar dismissed the fake narrative spread by the Opposition alliance, Mahavikas Aghadi, which accuses the government of aiming to change the Constitution, stop reservations, and declare India a Hindu nation. He firmly denied these claims, assuring that these actions are not in the government’s agenda.
Allegations of Betrayal:
Addressing the accusations of betrayal, Ajit Pawar vehemently denied them. He stated that the decision to join the government was a collective one and not a personal one. Pawar emphasized that he had not betrayed his family or his party and that his actions were always in the interest of the people.
On Nawab Malik’s Ticket:
Ajit Pawar explained that the decision to give a ticket to Nawab Malik was a collective one within the alliance, and it was made in accordance with the common minimum programme. He reiterated that no single party can form a government on its own in Maharashtra, underlining the need for alliances.
Ajit Pawar’s statements reflect his strong confidence in the alliance’s success and a commitment to the ongoing work in the state, despite the internal political differences within his family and party.
