Maharashtra Minister Hasan Mushrif Defends NCP Leadership Amid Election Voting
State Medical Education Minister Hasan Mushrif addressed the media on Saturday after casting his vote in the Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti elections in Kolhapur. He strongly defended senior Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) functionaries Sunil Tatkare and Praful Patel, emphasizing that the NCP remains a distinct political entity that should not face external interference in its internal affairs.
Defending Party Leadership and Autonomy
Hasan Mushrif firmly stated, "If Sunil Tatkare is the state president and Praful Patel is the party's working president, then how can they be labeled as 'villains' for fulfilling their responsibilities and convening party meetings?" He further questioned the criticism surrounding Sunetra Pawar's appointment as Deputy Chief Minister, adding, "If Sunetra vahini is made the deputy CM, then how are they villains? NCP is a separate political party, and no one else should interfere in party matters. Sunetra vahini and our party functionaries are fully capable of making independent decisions."
Timing of Sunetra Pawar's Oath-Taking Explained
Mushrif also clarified the timing of Sunetra Pawar's oath-taking ceremony, which occurred on the fourth day following the tragic death of former Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on January 28. He explained, "The Pawar family is progressive and adheres to a three-day mourning period. Certain family members believed that Sunetra vahini should assume office promptly. Therefore, after completing the third-day rituals, Sunetra vahini took the oath as deputy chief minister."
Inquiry into Plane Accident and Political Unity
Regarding the recent plane accident, Mushrif confirmed that both the state and central governments have ordered an investigation. The black box has been recovered, and he assured that the actual cause will be revealed soon. He noted that senior politician Sharad Pawar has already characterized the incident as an accident, ruling out sabotage.
When asked about the potential reunification of the NCP and NCP(SP), Mushrif responded, "If Sunetra vahini, NCP politicians, and the Pawar family members decide to come together, then there will not be any issue with both parties merging. We will follow the decision taken by our party leadership."
Election Prospects in Western Maharashtra
Discussing the Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti elections, Mushrif expressed confidence in the NCP's performance. He said, "NCP is very well spread across western Maharashtra. Due to the sudden and sad demise of Ajit Pawar, all voters and party workers are heartbroken. I am sure that in this election, people will show sympathy towards Ajit Pawar. Mahayuti parties will take control, and NCP will secure the president post for the zilla parishad in Kolhapur district."
Mushrif's statements highlight the ongoing political dynamics within the NCP, the impact of Ajit Pawar's passing, and the party's strategic positioning ahead of local elections, all while reinforcing the call for autonomy in party matters.
