In the wake of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar's passing, a significant section of Muslim leaders in Mumbai has voiced profound sorrow, stating that secularism has lost one of its most robust and vocal advocates. Many community figures have specifically highlighted Pawar's unwavering public commitment to secular principles, particularly recalling his powerful statements at an iftar party hosted last year at the Islam Gymkhana.
A Bold Declaration of Brotherhood
Nawab Malik, former minister and senior leader of the Nationalist Congress Party (Ajit Pawar faction), vividly recounted the event. "At this iftar dinner, he boldly declared that he was a brother to Muslims and would not tolerate anyone intimidating the community," Malik stated. This assurance was not made in a vacuum; it came during a period of heightened communal tension across Maharashtra.
Context of Tension and Commitment
Pawar's remarks were delivered against a backdrop of significant unrest. The political atmosphere was charged due to persistent calls for the demolition of the mausoleum of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb at Khuldabad near Sambhajinagar (formerly Aurangabad). Furthermore, the state was grappling with the aftermath of the Nagpur riots, making his public stance on secular harmony particularly impactful and courageous.
Exemplary Public Service and Secular Credentials
Congress MLA Amin Patel, who had known Ajit Pawar for several decades, emphasized the late leader's exemplary commitment to secularism and public service. "I knew him very closely and never found him discriminating against anyone. He worked tirelessly for all citizens, irrespective of caste, creed, or religion. His passing represents a monumental loss for the entire state of Maharashtra," Patel remarked, underscoring the personal and political integrity Pawar was known for.
Strategic Alliances, Ideological Consistency
Adding to this perspective, Syed Jalaluddin, the national chairman of the minorities department, clarified that Pawar's political alliances never compromised his core secular beliefs. "His decision to align with the BJP-led Mahayuti coalition was purely strategic, not ideological. Throughout his career, Ajit Pawar remained steadfastly secular, consistently demonstrating this through both his public statements and his concrete actions in governance," Jalaluddin explained. This distinction highlights how Pawar navigated complex political landscapes while maintaining his principles.
The collective reflections from these Muslim leaders paint a picture of Ajit Pawar as a political figure whose secular voice provided reassurance and stability, especially during times of communal sensitivity. His death is seen not just as a political loss, but as the silencing of a powerful advocate for pluralism and inclusive governance in Maharashtra.
