Pune, May 1: A statement by Yugeendra Pawar, a leader of the NCP (Ajit Pawar faction), has stirred political circles, suggesting a potential shift in Maharashtra’s political landscape. He claimed that Ajit Pawar‘s faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) might join the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) in the future.
Speaking to reporters, Yugeendra expressed confidence in the performance of Sunetra Pawar, the late former Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar’s wife, in the Baramati Assembly by-election.
He stated, “There was no strong opposition against Sunetra Kaki in the Baramati Assembly by-election. Out of the 224,000 votes cast, I am confident she will win by a margin of 220,000 votes, setting a new record.”
Yugeendra pointed to the possibility of reconciliation between the two factions of the NCP, noting that many had previously supported a merger, and that sentiment still exists.
He remarked, “If they (Ajit Pawar’s faction) leave the ‘Mahayuti’ alliance tomorrow, or are forced to leave, they could return to the ‘Maha Vikas Aghadi’ or rejoin our party. People once believed that Shiv Sena and Congress could never come together, yet they did and successfully governed. Similarly, anything is possible.”
When asked who would represent Baramati as an MLA in 2029, Yugeendra stated that the decision would depend on the public and senior members of the Pawar family.
He said, “The people of Baramati and party workers will make this decision. Ultimately, it will be up to Pawar Sahab (Sharad Pawar) and Tai (Supriya Sule) to make the final call. All senior members of our family will sit together to discuss this. If everyone agrees and it benefits the public, and if we can avoid a ‘Pawar vs. Pawar’ contest, then why shouldn’t it happen?”
Addressing recent tensions and referencing an incident involving Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and a helicopter, Yugeendra emphasized the need for transparency.
He stated, “The truth must come out. Our only demand regarding the incident involving Ajit Dada is that the truth should be revealed. There are still many questions that remain unanswered. We have found several discrepancies in the DGCA report. Although investigations are ongoing from various angles, the facts should be made public.”
He also stressed the importance of family unity over political rivalry. “I have said this before, and Jai Pawar has echoed the same sentiment. We have heard statements from Supriya Tai and Sunetra Kaki. We must remain united as a family. Personally, I believe there should not be a ‘Pawar vs. Pawar’ fight.”
Discussing his visits to drought-affected areas, Yugeendra credited Sharad Pawar’s guidance for coordinating with the irrigation department to release water for farmers.
He said, “Following Pawar Sahab’s ideals, we are working for the people. When Dada (Ajit Pawar) was in charge, there were no water-related issues. Today, many problems have arisen, but we are finding ways to resolve them.”
He further noted that stabilizing the Karha and Neera rivers remains a priority, driven by Ajit Pawar’s vision.
He concluded, “If Dada were here, that work would progress more swiftly. Addressing the water crisis is our responsibility, and through the Saryu Foundation, we will continue to serve the people, regardless of electoral cycles.”
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