Sharad Pawar Condemns Ajit Pawar's Vote-for-Funds Strategy in Maharashtra Political Rivalry

Sharad Pawar criticized the ongoing competition regarding fund allocation within Maharashtra politics.

Pune:

NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar expressed disapproval on Thursday regarding Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar's recent "vote or no funds" statement, asserting that seeking electoral support based on financial promises is inappropriate.

During a media interaction in Baramati, Pune district, Sharad Pawar additionally mentioned that the state government's assistance to farmers affected by recent flooding and rain damage remains insufficient.

Last week, Ajit Pawar, who leads the rival NCP faction, told voters in Malegaon, Baramati tehsil, that he would ensure abundant funding for their town if they elected his party's candidates, but would "reject" them if they chose otherwise.

With local body elections across Maharashtra scheduled for December 2, the political climate has intensified.

Addressing the controversy surrounding control of the state treasury following the deputy CM's remarks, Sharad Pawar noted there appears to be competitive posturing regarding fund distribution.

"Elections should be contested based on accomplished work rather than financial guarantees. This approach is inappropriate. If the sole objective becomes winning elections by leveraging financial aspects, such commentary becomes unnecessary," the senior Pawar stated.

Regarding agricultural relief measures, the NCP (SP) leader emphasized the need for more comprehensive support for farmers impacted by recent heavy rainfall in certain regions.

"While the state has suspended farmer loan recovery for one year, this provides only temporary relief rather than long-term solutions. Considering the extensive damage, the government should have offered partial financial assistance to farmers, which would have provided more adequate support," he observed.