In a charged atmosphere following his nomination filing on Monday, Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister and NCP chief, Ajit Pawar, delivered a heartfelt address at a rally in Baramati. The rally took a poignant turn as Pawar accused his uncle and NCP patron, Sharad Pawar, of creating division within their family by fielding a rival candidate against him.
“I previously admitted to making a mistake, but it seems like others are now making errors too,” Ajit Pawar expressed, visibly emotional. He recounted an agreement among family members to ensure his nomination from Baramati, which he felt had been disregarded. “My mother has been very supportive, and she even advised that they should not nominate anyone against Ajit Pawar. However, I was told that Saheb (Sharad Pawar) instructed someone to file a nomination against me. Saheb created the split within the family,” he stated, emphasizing that politics should not compromise familial bonds.
Ajit Pawar stressed the development he claims Baramati has experienced under his leadership, defending his record amidst skepticism. “Baramati has seen significant development, yet people have the right to question me on this subject,” he remarked. “Just because someone questions the development work doesn’t mean that initiatives like road construction and school building aren’t significant.”
Exuding confidence in his electoral prospects, Ajit Pawar assured his supporters that the ongoing welfare schemes would persist if he is elected. “Mahayuti will come back to power. We all know that by November 23 afternoon, this government will return,” he proclaimed, asserting his commitment to the ‘Ladli scheme’ for the next five years. He warned that if the opposition regained control, these programs would be at risk.
Pawar also encouraged his supporters to maintain their enthusiasm leading up to the voting day, assuring them of his electoral victory. “Today, while holding a roadshow, I saw a lot of enthusiasm and excitement from the people supporting me. I want to tell you all to please keep this enthusiasm until voting day,” he urged.
The election battle in Baramati is particularly significant for Ajit Pawar, as he is contesting against his nephew and Sharad Pawar’s grandson, Yugendra Pawar. After a recent loss of the Lok Sabha seat to his sister, Supriya Sule, Ajit Pawar is determined to prove his political mettle in his home constituency.
As the Maharashtra Assembly elections approach, the rivalry within the NCP family adds a complex layer to the already dynamic political landscape.