Baramati buzzed with political intrigue as NCP patriarch Sharad Pawar addressed speculation surrounding Sunetra Pawar’s potential oath as Maharashtra’s Deputy CM. On January 31, the 83-year-old leader categorically stated he was out of the loop on the matter.
Interacting with the media, Pawar attributed the decision to internal deliberations within the rival NCP group. ‘This must be the party’s call, similar to choices made by Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare. I’m not privy to their internal decisions,’ he said, highlighting the growing chasm between the factions.
Sharad Pawar made it clear he was washing his hands off the appointment. ‘They have the authority to decide. Our routes in politics are separate now, but family unites in sorrow,’ he noted, balancing familial solidarity with political separation.
Addressing concerns over family discord, Pawar dismissed rumors outright. ‘Families stick together during hardships. The Pawars are solid as ever,’ he declared confidently.
Queried about attendance at the swearing-in, Pawar repeated his lack of information. ‘We heard about it in the news. No formal invite or details reached us.’
Shifting to broader party reconciliation, Pawar shared insights into pre-crash negotiations. Merger talks between Ajit Pawar and Jayant Patil had progressed positively, almost sealing the deal. ‘Ajit wanted unity, as did we. They were set to announce it as Deputy CM on February 12,’ he explained, noting his peripheral role.
Ajit’s sudden death in the plane accident has derailed these efforts. Pawar left the future open-ended, saying it hinges on both camps’ leadership. As Maharashtra gears up for more power plays, Sharad Pawar’s measured words signal cautious optimism amid uncertainty.