In an open letter, Ajit Pawar says never ‘intended to insult seniors’, joined govt for development’s sake

Ajit said, “It has been discussed several times as to who brought me into politics, who gave me a chance, and who gave me a ministerial berth. I came into politics by accident. At that time (in 1991), there was a need for a young leader at the state level and since I was in the family, that’s why I was given the chance”.

He added he worked day and night to ensure that the opportunity was aptly used and he used it for the benefit of the people for three decades.

“I have given preference to development over politics since day one. Development will be the only programme for me and my colleagues even tomorrow. I have been on the ruling side and in the Opposition. I have experienced the pace of development when in power and delays when in Opposition. Therefore, one cannot deny that elected representatives need to be coupled with power,” he said.

A day after writing the letter, Ajit Pawar on Monday announced a divisional level NaMo Maha Employment Fair will be held at his assembly constituency of Baramati on March 2 for the youth in Pune, Kolhapur, Sangli, Satara and Solapur districts.

“The reason behind taking a different position was to push for developmental projects without compromising on ideology. It had no intention of insulting, hurting emotions, backstabbing or betraying anyone and it will never be,” he said.

Ajit claimed he was inspired by the strong leadership and apt decision-making of PM Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. “Mine and their working style are similar. We give more importance to work. With their help, I can effectively implement the projects that I have in mind. My decision is to keep the state at the top in the race of development,” he said.

Without naming anyone, Ajit reiterated he had no intention of insulting seniors or veterans. He said, “I want to promise the people of Maharashtra that even in the future, the Nationalist Congress Party will bring out a blueprint of the state’s development without launching personal attacks or comments on anyone”.

Meanwhile, Mahesh Tapase, NCP (SP) chief spokesperson said the reason behind the letter being written was due to a lack of response from the public to Ajit Pawar despite him joining the government.

“The reason given by you cannot be accepted as many smaller parties are working tirelessly against the government even today. At a time when Sharad Pawar is standing against unconstitutional forces, you, instead of joining him, have decided to switch sides. The people will not forget this,” said Tapase.