Pune, Nov 15: Senior opposition leader Sharad Pawar on Friday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of “dividing” society, as he fiercely criticized the PM’s campaign speeches ahead of the Maharashtra assembly elections. Pawar also ruled out any possibility of a post-poll alliance with his estranged nephew Ajit Pawar, who had joined the BJP in 2023, stating that he would not associate with anyone aligned with the BJP.
In an exclusive interview with PTI, Pawar, the leader of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and the architect of the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) in Maharashtra, dismissed Modi’s rhetoric of social unity and accused the ruling Mahayuti alliance of using monetary power, including cash transfer schemes, to influence the electorate after their poor showing in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
“People will reject them. They can’t fool the masses with money,” Pawar remarked.
Pawar also voiced his disapproval of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, slamming his controversial “batengain to katengain” slogan, which has sparked criticism even from some BJP allies and leaders, including Ajit Pawar, the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra. Sharad Pawar referred to Adityanath and others in the BJP as individuals who promote communalism and claimed they are doing a disservice to the country.
Pawar’s Response to Modi’s Criticism of Opposition
When questioned about PM Modi’s accusations that the opposition is dividing society along caste lines, Pawar hit back, saying that it is Modi himself who is deepening societal divisions. Modi has been urging people to unite under the BJP-Shiv Sena-NCP alliance, calling for social cohesion and rejecting the alleged appeasement politics of the opposition.
“He (Modi) is the prime minister, but his actions are divisive. His speeches over the past few days are aimed at furthering his political interests,” Pawar said.
The NCP leader expressed that, during his extensive campaigning, he had sensed widespread discontent among the public, especially among farmers and the youth. According to Pawar, people will favor the MVA when they head to the polls on November 20.
No Post-Poll Alliance with Ajit Pawar
In a pointed remark about his nephew Ajit Pawar, who defected to the BJP-led government in 2023, Sharad Pawar firmly ruled out any possibility of reuniting with him after the elections.
“There is no question of any alliance with those who are associated with the BJP. We have our own party and principles, and we will not entertain such discussions,” Pawar said.
Ajit Pawar’s breakaway faction of the NCP, which joined the BJP in 2023, has raised speculation about a potential realignment in the state’s political landscape, depending on the results of the upcoming elections. However, Sharad Pawar made it clear that he considers those who sided with his nephew as “traitors” and expressed confidence that voters would serve them justice in the upcoming election.
BJP’s Welfare Schemes: A Reaction to People’s Unhappiness
Sharad Pawar also addressed the BJP’s recent welfare schemes, particularly the controversial ‘Ladki Bahin’ cash transfer program, under which Rs 1,500 is given to women. The scheme, aimed at attracting female voters, has been widely discussed, with some perceiving it as a last-minute attempt to recover lost ground after the 2024 Lok Sabha loss. Pawar suggested that the government’s decision to launch such schemes was a reaction to the “unrest” among the people, particularly in the face of discontent with the ruling government’s performance.
“They have realized they are not getting a positive response. They are now throwing money at the issue, but it won’t work. Women will vote for our alliance for peace, security, and overall welfare,” he added.
Impact of BJP’s Hindutva Campaign
As the BJP intensifies its Hindutva campaign ahead of the elections, Sharad Pawar acknowledged the ruling alliance’s emphasis on religious identity politics. However, he stressed that the true impact of these strategies could only be assessed after the election results are declared. Despite the ruling alliance’s focus on Hindutva and welfare schemes, Pawar remains confident that the opposition’s message of social harmony, security, and inclusive governance will resonate with the electorate.
MVA’s Campaign and the Road Ahead
Sharad Pawar, at 83, is spearheading the MVA campaign to reclaim ground in western Maharashtra and rebuild his party’s influence following its 2023 split. While he refrained from making any predictions regarding the number of seats the MVA may win, he expressed confidence that the people are fed up with the current government, especially due to its failure to address issues like farmer distress and youth unemployment.
“Whenever they get an opportunity to cast their votes, they will support us and our associates,” said Pawar.
The Political Landscape: Fluid and Unpredictable
Despite Pawar’s strong stand, Maharashtra’s political landscape remains fluid, with a variety of regional leaders and ideological shifts keeping the political situation volatile. Speculation about a potential post-poll realignment remains alive, but Sharad Pawar has made it clear that his alliance remains firmly opposed to any association with the BJP, emphasizing the integrity of his party’s principles.
As November 20 approaches, the political battle in Maharashtra intensifies, with Sharad Pawar and the MVA facing a crucial test in the polls. Pawar’s steadfast stance against the BJP and his determination to keep his party aligned with its core values will be key factors in the state’s future political landscape.
