Political rumours take centre stage in Maharashtra, Sharad Pawar allegedly denies central ministry in lieu of joining NDA

Mumbai, August 16, 2023: Tensions are escalating within the Maharashtra opposition alliance following a meeting between seasoned politician Sharad Pawar and his nephew Ajit Pawar. In response to claims of being offered a Union Minister position in exchange for leaving the INDIA bloc and aligning with the BJP, Sharad Pawar has firmly dismissed such allegations.

The meeting, held at a Pune businessman’s residence on Saturday, has sparked speculations about Ajit Pawar’s intentions to persuade his uncle to shift allegiance. However, Sharad Pawar clarified that some “well-wishers” were attempting to convince him to join forces with the BJP, but he unequivocally stated that he has no such intentions.

When questioned about the claims made by Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan, Sharad Pawar asserted, “I have no idea what the former CM said. There was no such discussion. I am not denying that the meeting happened, but as the head of the family, I speak to all family members. These are just rumors, and there’s no reality in any of these things being said.”

Addressing the issue of his political standing, Pawar, a senior figure in the party, retorted, “I am the seniormost person in the party, who will give me an offer.”

The situation has sparked unease within the alliance of Congress, NCP, and Shiv Sena. Sanjay Raut, an aide to Uddhav Thackeray, referred to Sharad Pawar as the “Bhishma Pitamaha” of Maharashtra politics, urging him to avoid actions that create doubt among the people.

Amidst the escalating tensions, the INDIA bloc is gearing up for its next meeting in Mumbai on August 31, with a sabha to follow on the subsequent day.

Sharad Pawar criticized the BJP for alleged efforts to divide the populace, referencing a recent circular regarding CBSE that designates August 14 as “partition horrors remembrance day.” He accused the government of attempting to spread bitterness and division.

Furthermore, Pawar accused the BJP of destabilizing elected governments, citing instances in Goa, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra.

Regarding the situation in Manipur, Pawar criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s limited discussion of the matter and paralleled it with Devendra Fadnavis’ “Mi Punha Yein” remark ahead of the 2019 Maharashtra polls, which drew attention to his unexpected return to power after his previous government was overthrown.

The political scenario remains charged as alliances and intentions continue to be scrutinized in Maharashtra.