After Congress and Shiv Sena (Uddhav) expressed concerns over NCP chief Sharad Pawar’s repeated meetings with Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, the veteran leader on Monday affirmed the solidarity within MVA, dismissing any confusion and reiterating the alliance’s commitment to a successful INDIA meeting in Mumbai on August 31 and September 1.
The seasoned 82-year-old politician, making his first appearance in his home turf Baramati since Ajit’s inclusion into the Eknath Shinde-led Government on July 2, underscored the alliance’s cohesion, saying, “There is no confusion among MVA partners. We are all together and will ensure the INDIA meeting in Mumbai on August 31 and September 1 is organised successfully.”
Addressing a press conference, he asked the media to refrain from perpetuating ambiguity by reiterating the same question. Sharad, alongside Thackeray and State Congress president Nana Patole, emphasised their collective responsibility for orchestrating the upcoming significant gathering, set to take place at a luxury hotel in Mumbai.
Amid concerns over party alignment, Sharad clarified the NCP’s stand, emphasizing, “The NCP has no association with ‘factions from MVA’ that align with the BJP at the State and national level.” This reference subtly pointed to the alignment of his nephew, Ajit, with the BJP.
With regards to concerns raised by MVA constituents Congress and Shiv Sena’s mouthpiece “Saamana”, Sharad deftly addressed the matter, focusing on the broader unity within the alliance.
In response to speculation surrounding Maharashtra NCP Chief Jayant Patil’s potential collaboration with the BJP, Sharad refuted any discussions during his recent meeting with Ajit in Pune. Addressing recent developments involving Patil’s brother receiving an ED notice, Sharad expressed concerns about the misuse of power and voiced confidence in Patil’s unwavering ideological stance.
The NCP chief further touched on the recent Parliament session, highlighting the significance of addressing the Manipur issue and hardships faced by residents in border areas, particularly in the northeastern region.
In response to the BJP’s criticism of the Congress, he questioned the BJP’s track record over the past nine years, suggesting that the focus should be on current actions rather than laying blame on the Congress for events that transpired decades ago.