In a recent press conference, NCP chief Sharad Pawar responded to a question about the reliable face of the party by raising his hand and saying, "Sharad Pawar". The incident occurred during a media interaction during which journalists sought clarification on the NCP's future leadership and who could be considered the party's dependable representative. Sharad Pawar's response, known for his political acumen and experience, left no room for doubt as he signalled his own candidature for the role.
The NCP chief said on Sunday that a decision must be made on those who defied the party line and joined the Eknath Shinde government, implying that action would be taken against Ajit Pawar and other leaders who joined the ruling party.
Ajit Pawar was sworn in as deputy chief minister in an unexpected move, while eight MLAs from his Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) were sworn in as ministers in the government led by the Shiv Sena and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) earlier in the day.
Sharad Pawar, speaking at a press conference, stated that his goal following this development would be to travel as much as possible within the state and the country in order to build relationships with people, PTI reported.
Pawar stated that he would not fight over anyone saying anything in the NCP's name, but would instead go to the people.
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He mentioned Ajit Pawar, Chhagan Bhujbal, Dilip Walse-Patil, and Hasan Mushrif as party leaders who were concerned about the Enforcement Directorate's investigations, according to the report.
"All of the party's (NCP) MLAs, MPs, and workers are with us, which is why I took oath as Deputy CM," he said. "Today's episode (on his party's MLAs joining the Shinde government) may be new for others, but not for me," he added.
Pawar stated that he was not bothered by the fact that people had left, but he was concerned about their future.
Ajit Pawar Praises PM Modi:
Ajit Pawar, the Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister, praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership on Sunday, saying, "Country is moving ahead under PM Modi." He is quite popular and receives support from all over the world."
Pawar told a press conference that more ministers will be added in the next expansion. "We decided to form the Shinde-Fadanvis government with almost all NCP MLAs." We took the oath of office, and a few more ministers will be added in the next expansion."