Ajit Pawar's 'Chha-Chhu Kaam' Critique: Pune Police HQ Inspection Exposes Shoddy Work
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, known for his no-nonsense approach, made headlines when he publicly criticized a contractor and police officials for slipshod construction work at the Pune City Police Headquarters. This incident, which occurred on June 11, 2021, showcased Pawar's commitment to quality governance and accountability in public projects.
Inauguration Turns Into Inspection
Ajit Pawar arrived at the Pune City Police Headquarters in Shivajinagar to inaugurate a renovated building originally constructed in 1908 during the British era. However, what was meant to be a celebratory event quickly turned into a rigorous inspection. Pawar, upon close examination, grew visibly upset with the quality of the construction.
In a video that later went viral, Pawar can be seen pointing out flaws in the work in front of then police commissioner Amitabh Gupta and other officials. He famously remarked in Marathi, "Mazya bhashet sangayche tar hey chha-chhu kaam ahe", which translates to "In my words, this is bad work." Despite inaugurating the building, Pawar made it clear that he would not hesitate to call out deficiencies.
Public Reprimand and Assurance
Addressing Commissioner Gupta, Pawar stated, "Gupta, if you call me to inspect such work, I will appreciate it if it is done well. If not, I will point out the faults." He then chastised the contractor, questioning how such poor work could be carried out for the police and what it implied for other clients. Pawar, who was part of the Uddhav Thackeray-led Maha Vikas Aghadi government at the time, publicly showed the construction flaws to the contractor.
In response, Gupta assured Pawar that the issues would be rectified within ten days. This incident highlighted Pawar's reputation for taking a tough stand while inspecting works executed by police and government officials, a trait that defined his political career until his untimely passing in a plane crash in Baramati.
Broader Context of Governance and Rules
Ajit Pawar often emphasized the importance of adhering to rules and maintaining public trust in government duties. In another incident in February 2021, while speaking at a Pune city police event to return stolen valuables, Pawar warned officials against using expensive cars provided by businessmen during official duties.
He recounted seeing police officers in Mumbai using vehicles worth around Rs 35 lakh, which were allegedly provided by businessmen for their convoy. Pawar deemed this practice inappropriate, stating, "This is not right." He highlighted that the matter was discussed at the chief minister's level and with then additional chief secretary Sitaram Kunte.
Pawar stressed, "Whether it is chief minister, deputy chief minister or high court judge, there are rules regarding the use of vehicles for persons holding government posts.... What anybody does in their personal life is their own issue. But when on government duty, rules should be followed. Using vehicles provided by businessmen while on duty is not right. People are watching us. We have to work such that people believe in us."
Contrasting Stances on Criminal Elements
Interestingly, Pawar also expressed concern over the procession carried out by gangster Gajanan Marne from Taloja jail to Pune. However, during the recent Pune Municipal Corporation elections, the Nationalist Congress Party fielded Jayshree Marne, Gajanan's wife, from Ward No. 10, though she lost. The party also fielded gangster Bapu Nayar from Ward No. 39, who also faced defeat.
In a contrasting move, NCP candidates Sonali Andekar and Lakshmi Andekar, contesting from jail, won the PMC elections from ward number 23. Sonali is the daughter-in-law of gangster Suryakant alias Bandu Andekar, while Lakshmi is his sister-in-law. All three are currently lodged in Yerwada jail in connection with the murder of 18-year-old Ayush Komkar, grandson of Bandu Andekar. Members of the Andekar family were seen sharing the stage with Ajit Pawar at election campaign rallies in Pune, showcasing the complex dynamics of politics and crime in the region.
This series of events underscores Ajit Pawar's multifaceted approach to governance, from stringent inspections of public works to nuanced political strategies, leaving a lasting impact on Maharashtra's political landscape.
