The Pawar family reconvened in Baramati on Wednesday for a significant meeting focused on planning a grand memorial in honour of the late Ajit Pawar. This gathering, held at Vidya Pratishthan in Baramati, marked the second such family meeting in two days, underscoring the importance of the initiative.
Family Unity and Memorial Discussions
Key family members in attendance included veteran leader Sharad Pawar, his wife Pratibha Pawar, Shriniwas Pawar, Rohit Pawar, Ranjit Pawar, Parth Pawar, and Jay Pawar. Trustees of Vidya Pratishthan were also present, contributing to the discussions. Notably, Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar was absent, as per NCP sources, due to observing traditional mourning rituals until after the thirteenth day of Ajit Pawar's passing.
Plans for a Grand Memorial
Rohit Pawar, an NCP(SP) MLA, elaborated on the family's vision for the memorial. "All of us feel that there should be a grand memorial in Ajitdada's name," he stated. The discussions centered on selecting a suitable location where the public could visit and pay respects, considering Ajit Pawar's extensive 35–40 years of political service. The family is contemplating whether to establish it in Baramati city or another site, with a decision expected soon from family members and trustees of involved social institutions.
The proposed memorial aims to include a high-quality museum, reflecting both public sentiment and family desires to honour his legacy. Rohit Pawar emphasized that the meeting was strictly personal and social, with no political agendas discussed, highlighting the family's focus on commemorating Ajit Pawar's contributions.
Addressing the Plane Crash Inquiry
In response to media queries, Rohit Pawar addressed the recent plane crash involving Ajit Pawar, stating that the family would only comment after February 9. "Only after February 9, we will speak about the plane crash... What happened in the plane? How did it happen? This can be talked about clearly only after February," he explained. He stressed the importance of uncovering the truth to address public doubts and unanswered questions, expressing hope for clarity as both the Pawar family and citizens of Maharashtra.
Family Solidarity and Leadership
Rohit Pawar also reflected on the family's unity during challenging times, praising Sharad Pawar's unwavering support. "He (Sharad Pawar) has always been the focal point of our family. His work from both political and social perspectives is immense," he noted. He added that Ajit Pawar similarly stood by the family in crises, and in his absence, the family continues to seek guidance from Sharad Pawar, reinforcing their bond beyond politics.
Political Reactions and Context
Reacting to the meeting, state NCP president Sunil Tatkare defended the family gathering, particularly the presence of Parth and Jay Pawar with their grandfather Sharad Pawar. "What was wrong with Parth Pawar and Jay Pawar meeting Sharad Pawar? There is nothing wrong with Parth and Jay meeting their grandfather," he asserted, dismissing any political interpretations and emphasizing the familial nature of the event.
Ajit Pawar's Final Message
In a related development, the NCP released a final video message from Ajit Pawar, recorded shortly before his death, addressing voters for the upcoming Zilla Parishad elections. In the video, he appeals for support, stating, "I am not just a man of words, but a man of action." He highlights the Zilla Parishad's role in rural development, covering areas like water, roads, education, health, farming, and jobs, and urges voters to elect clean, efficient candidates under the party's Clock symbol.
The polling for the Zilla Parishad election is scheduled for February 7, with counting set for February 9, adding a political backdrop to the family's memorial plans during this period of mourning and reflection.
