In a significant political development, Nationalist Congress Party (SP) president Sharad Pawar has publicly called for an investigation into a controversial land deal that allegedly involves his grandnephew Parth Pawar. The veteran politician made this statement on Saturday, citing Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis's own assessment of the matter's seriousness.
Pawar's Call for Transparency
Speaking to reporters, Sharad Pawar emphasized the need for a thorough probe into the land transaction. "The chief minister has said publicly that the matter is serious. So he should conduct a probe and put the facts before society," Pawar stated, showing his willingness to have the controversy properly examined through official channels.
The controversy centers around the alleged illegal sale of 40 acres of government land in Pune's Mundhwa area, with Opposition leaders claiming the property, estimated to be worth approximately Rs 1,800 crore, was purchased by a company connected to Parth Pawar for only Rs 300 crore while receiving a stamp duty waiver. Parth Pawar is the son of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, who has reportedly distanced himself from the transaction.
Family Dynamics and Political Divisions
When questioned about whether his nephew Ajit Pawar is facing political targeting from allies within the ruling Mahayuti alliance, the senior Pawar responded with "I wouldn't know," maintaining a diplomatic stance on the sensitive matter.
The NCP leader also indicated a difference of opinion with his daughter and party MP Supriya Sule, who had previously expressed confidence that Parth wouldn't engage in any wrongdoing. "This could be her view," Pawar remarked, subtly distancing himself from her defense of his grandnephew.
Pawar elaborated on the complex relationship between family and politics, noting that "administration, politics, and family are different." He highlighted the ideological divisions within the Pawar family, revealing that "one of my grand nephews had contested against Ajit Pawar, and Ajit Pawar's wife had contested against my daughter," illustrating the political complexities that transcend family ties.
Political Strategy and Alliance Building
Looking ahead to the upcoming local body polls in Maharashtra, Pawar confirmed that the strategy would be decided unanimously by Maha Vikas Aghadi allies. "We are meeting tomorrow and will take a call on our strategy and on inducting new partners in our fold," he disclosed, indicating potential expansions in the opposition alliance.
In a significant political move, Pawar hinted at the possibility of bringing Raj Thackeray's Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) into the opposition camp. He suggested that "if a good alternative emerges through a consensus in MVA, the Congress party should not take an extreme stance on MNS, and should think about it." This potential alliance expansion could significantly alter Maharashtra's political landscape.
Criticism of Government's Agricultural Policies
Shifting focus to agricultural issues, the former Union minister launched a sharp critique against the Mahayuti government's handling of farmer welfare. Pawar alleged that the administration "doesn't seem bothered about the plight of farmers, battling crop loss and indebtedness."
Drawing historical parallels, he noted that "Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's kingdom comprised hardworking people and farmers. Shivaji Maharaj always took care of farmers. However, this is not happening now." Pawar claimed that the financial assistance announced by the state government for agriculturists affected by heavy rains "has not yet reached many among them."
The veteran politician went further, terming the government's relief package announcement "akin to a fraud" and pointing out that farmers who received financial assistance in April for unseasonal rains haven't received any support for current challenges. He also described the announcement of a farmer loan waiver as "deceptive," casting doubt on the government's commitment to agricultural welfare.
This criticism comes amid an agitation led by former MLA Bachchu Kadu, with Chief Minister Fadnavis having stated that the state government will make a decision on farm loan waivers by June 30, 2026.
