As Maharashtra gears up for its upcoming assembly elections, political tensions within the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) have intensified. Jitendra Awhad, a prominent leader from the Sharad Pawar faction of the NCP, has launched a scathing attack on Ajit Pawar, labeling him a “traitor” and questioning his loyalty.
Awhad’s fierce remarks come against the backdrop of Ajit Pawar’s controversial alignment with the BJP. In a recent statement, Awhad questioned, “Can you trust someone who joins hands with the BJP? How can you love such a person?” He further criticized Ajit Pawar for allegedly waiting for the death of his uncle, Sharad Pawar, and accused him of trying to take over the party and merge it with the BJP, reported by TV9 Marathi.
Awhad has previously expressed disdain for Ajit Pawar, accusing him of threatening Sharad Pawar and attempting to consolidate power. Awad’s comments highlight the deepening rift within the NCP, as the party prepares for the critical assembly elections at the end of this year.
Ajit Pawar’s 2023 rebellion, which saw him and his supporting MLAs align with the BJP and join the Grand Alliance, led to his appointment as Deputy Chief Minister in Eknath Shinde’s government. Despite this, the Grand Alliance’s poor performance in the recent Lok Sabha elections has diminished Ajit Pawar’s influence, with only one of his candidates securing a victory.
As the assembly elections approach, the Sharad Pawar faction remains hopeful of capitalizing on the weakened position of Ajit Pawar and the Grand Alliance. The internal party conflict and shifting political dynamics will play a crucial role in shaping the outcome of the forthcoming elections.