Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has reiterated his dissatisfaction with his uncle, Sharad Pawar, over the latter’s decision not to step down from the leadership of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) last year. In a veiled reference to Sharad Pawar, Ajit Pawar remarked today that “some people” refuse to retire even after reaching a certain age.
“People should stop after reaching a certain age. This tradition has been going on for years,” commented Ajit Pawar. “But there are some people who are not ready to listen. They are adamant about their views. People take retirement after 60, some at the age of 65, some at 70, and some at 80. But even after turning 80, this person is not ready to retire,” he added.
Expressing his frustration, Ajit Pawar questioned the ongoing situation, emphasizing the need for focus on work. He urged for transparency, stating, “What is going on? We are here to work. If we are wrong somewhere, let us know. We have so much potential. I have been the Deputy Chief Minister of the state many times. We have made many schemes successful.”
The rift within the NCP became evident in May last year when Sharad Pawar unexpectedly announced his intention to retire due to differences within the party. He recommended the formation of a committee to decide on the election of the President’s post. However, this decision was later retracted amid protests and challenges from party workers.
Despite Sharad Pawar’s efforts to maintain unity, the party faced a setback in July when Ajit Pawar and his loyal MLAs joined the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance government in Maharashtra. Subsequently, Ajit Pawar staked claim to the NCP’s name and poll symbol, a move currently under challenge in the Election Commission by Sharad Pawar.
In December last year, Sharad Pawar addressed the issue of age-related comments and criticisms, stating, “I have a complaint with you people. You people often comment on my age that I am 84 years old, I am 83 years old, what have you people seen in me till now? I have not become old. I still have so much strength in me. I can straighten some people out.”
The ongoing discord within the NCP leadership remains a significant challenge for the party, with Ajit Pawar’s recent comments highlighting the persisting tensions. The public exchange of statements reflects the internal struggles and differing perspectives within the party, raising questions about its future trajectory.
As the political dynamics continue to unfold in Maharashtra, the NCP faces the task of navigating internal conflicts and maintaining a unified front. The rift between Ajit Pawar and Sharad Pawar adds complexity to the party’s dynamics, and the public airing of grievances only underscores the challenges in achieving consensus and cohesion within the NCP leadership. The coming months may provide further insights into the resolution of these internal differences and their impact on the party’s political standing in the state.
