Sharad Pawar Slams BJP’s ‘Divisive’ Tactics, Expresses Confidence Amidst Rebellion

Mumbai: NCP President Sharad Pawar addressed his party workers in Satara, Maharashtra, following his nephew Ajit Pawar’s defection to the BJP and the Maharashtra government led by Eknath Shinde. Pawar indirectly referred to Ajit’s move as falling prey to the BJP’s tactics to divide other parties. He also mentioned the toppling of the Maha Vikas Aghadi government by rebel Shiv Sena MLAs last year, stating that the alliance of NCP, Congress, and Shiv Sena was disrupted by certain individuals.

Pawar criticized the ruling BJP for creating conflicts based on caste and religion in Maharashtra and across the country. He highlighted the division being created within society and expressed concern over the situation.

Also Read: NCP Seeks Disqualification of Ajit Pawar & 8 Other MLAs

Regarding the internal rebellion within the NCP, Sharad Pawar has called for a party meeting on July 6 to address the issue.

Ajit Pawar led a split within the NCP, becoming Maharashtra’s deputy chief minister, and eight NCP leaders joined the BJP-Shiv Sena government as ministers. The NCP has petitioned Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar to disqualify Ajit Pawar and the rebel MLAs, stating that they defected from the party without the knowledge or consent of the party chief.

Pawar acknowledged that some colleagues had taken a different stand and stated that he had faced a similar situation in the past. He expressed confidence in rebuilding and coming back stronger, referring to a previous incident in 1980 where most of the MLAs who left him were defeated in subsequent elections. Pawar emphasized his belief in the people and his determination to overcome challenges.