In a significant political manoeuvre, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar staged a grand rally in Baramati, traditionally viewed as the stronghold of party chief and his uncle, Sharad Pawar. This comes following his unexpected induction into the Maharashtra BJP-Shiv Sena government, thereby severing ties with his influential uncle.
On Saturday, the streets of Baramati bore witness to Ajit Pawar’s massive support. Clothed in a white kurta-pyjama ensemble with a matching turban, he led a roadshow, gracefully acknowledging supporters who showered him with petals and draped him in a grand garland.
The rally culminated with a public address, where Ajit justified his alliance with the BJP-Shiv Sena combine as a step towards Maharashtra’s development. During this, he lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his role in advancing various national projects.
His inclusion as the deputy chief minister last month, alongside eight other NCP members becoming ministers, startled political observers. “The reason for my allegiance to the Eknath Shinde and Devendra Fadnavis-led government is purely developmental. My aim is to uphold the trust of Baramatikars and focus on state progress, not personal affronts,” Ajit explained.
Ajit didn’t shy away from praising PM Modi’s dedication, placing him alongside renowned leaders like Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and Manmohan Singh. Despite his past criticisms of Modi, he acknowledged the significant developmental changes under Modi’s leadership.
Highlighting past opportunities, Ajit pointed out that the NCP could have clinched the Chief Minister’s position in 2004.
He also mentioned that while the NCP had more seats than Congress at one time, they didn’t ascend to the CM’s role.
Ajit subtly alluded to Shiv Sena’s Uddhav Thackeray’s choice to forgo the CM post but decided not to delve deep. Ajit reaffirmed his commitment to the Deputy Chief Minister’s responsibilities.
