Sharad Pawar Expresses No Knowledge of Sunetra Pawar's Oath-Taking Ceremony in Mumbai
In a significant development from Baramati, veteran politician Sharad Pawar, the late Ajit Pawar's uncle, revealed on Saturday that he had no prior information about Sunetra Pawar's oath-taking ceremony scheduled in Mumbai. He emphasized that he was neither consulted nor informed about the event, highlighting a lack of communication within the political circles.
Family to Abstain from Attending the Ceremony
Sharad Pawar further clarified that no members of his family would be present at the oath-taking ceremony. This decision underscores a clear separation between family support and political involvement, as he stressed that while emotional backing is provided, political matters remain the party's internal affair.
NCP's Internal Decision-Making Process
Responding to media queries in his hometown Baramati, Pawar addressed the timing of the ceremony, which follows just four days after Ajit Pawar's passing. He attributed the swift arrangements to the Nationalist Congress Party's (NCP) internal decisions, noting that senior leaders like Sunil Tatkare and Praful Patel have taken the lead in setting priorities for the event.
On Friday, key NCP functionaries, including working president Praful Patel, state party chief Sunil Tatkare, and cabinet minister Chhagan Bhujbal, met with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis in Mumbai. Their meeting was to formalize the party's decision to elect Sunetra Pawar as the leader of the NCP legislature and appoint her as deputy chief minister, with the oath-taking set for Saturday.
Sunetra Pawar's Journey to Mumbai
In preparation for the ceremony, Sunetra Pawar, along with her younger son Jay, departed from Baramati to Mumbai on Friday night. This move signals her readiness to step into the political role vacated by her husband, Ajit Pawar, following his tragic accident.
Sharad Pawar's Perspective on the Succession
When questioned about Sunetra being elected as Ajit Pawar's successor by the NCP, Sharad Pawar expressed that he learned of the decision through news reports, indicating a gap in direct communication. He reiterated that family members are there to offer emotional support, but political decisions are solely the party's internal call, with no prior family discussions on the matter.
He added, "The decision has been taken in Mumbai by their party seniors, and I do not want to comment on it." Reflecting on the succession, Pawar acknowledged the necessity of someone taking up the responsibility to continue Ajit Pawar's work and maintain public confidence, given the sudden loss.
This situation sheds light on the intricate dynamics within the NCP and the Pawar family, as political transitions unfold amidst personal grief and organizational priorities.
