Parth Pawar's Political Ambitions Take Center Stage in Maharashtra
In a significant development within Maharashtra's political landscape, Parth Pawar, the elder son of the late Ajit Pawar, is increasingly being viewed as positioning himself for a Rajya Sabha berth. This move comes as his mother, Sunetra Pawar, was sworn in as Maharashtra's deputy chief minister on Saturday, creating a vacancy in the upper house of Parliament.
A Strategic Absence and Crucial Meeting
While Sunetra Pawar took the oath of office in Mumbai, Parth Pawar notably did not attend the ceremony. Instead, he spent over an hour on Saturday morning at Sharad Pawar's residence in Govindbaug, Baramati. Sources close to the family described this as a crucial discussion with his great uncle, Sharad Pawar, and MP Supriya Sule, his father's cousin.
This meeting occurred shortly after Sharad Pawar, at a press conference in Baramati, publicly stated he had no prior information about Sunetra Pawar's swearing-in and learned of it only through media reports. "We don't know about the swearing-in… I have no idea about the swearing-in," the veteran leader said, indicating a lack of consultation with him or his faction before the announcement.
Political Calculations and Future Prospects
Insiders suggest that Parth's visit to Sharad Pawar was not merely personal but had significant political undertones. It was likely aimed at explaining recent developments and gauging support for his future role within the party's strategy. Sources within the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) revealed, "Many believe Parth could now stake a claim for the Rajya Sabha seat being vacated by Sunetra Pawar as she moves into the state cabinet. This transition would help keep his political relevance intact."
Parth eventually traveled to Mumbai late Saturday evening, arriving at Devgiri Bungalow where his mother and younger brother, Jay Pawar, were present. Jay, along with his wife Rutuja, represented the Pawar family at the swearing-in ceremony, highlighting the family's divided presence during this pivotal moment.
Parth Pawar's Political Journey: Challenges and Controversies
Parth Pawar's political career has been marked by both ambition and adversity. In 2019, he contested the Maval Lok Sabha seat but suffered a defeat despite strong campaigning and support from senior leaders, including Supriya Sule, with whom he shares close proximity in party politics. This loss marked a challenging phase in his public career.
His public image has also faced scrutiny over a controversial Pune land deal involving properties transferred at below-market rates to a firm linked to his company. The transaction became the subject of political criticism and an investigation, though it was later cancelled amid public backlash.
Navigating Family and Party Transitions
An NCP insider commented, "With the Pawar family and party in transition following Ajit Pawar's sudden death, Parth's strategic moves, especially his timing with senior leadership, suggest he could be in the race for a key parliamentary position. This would help keep the Pawar legacy dynamic in Maharashtra politics."
As political dynamics continue to evolve, Parth Pawar's potential bid for the Rajya Sabha seat underscores the ongoing realignments within one of Maharashtra's most influential political families. His actions in the coming days will be closely watched by observers and party members alike.
