Sharad Pawar Expresses No Prior Knowledge of Sunetra Pawar's Swearing-In Ceremony
Veteran politician and Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar) president Sharad Pawar revealed on Saturday that he had no information or consultation regarding the oath-taking ceremony of Sunetra Pawar as deputy chief minister of Maharashtra. The event took place in Mumbai, just three days after the tragic demise of her husband and late deputy CM Ajit Pawar in a plane crash.
Family Absence and Political Decisions
Speaking to the media in his hometown of Baramati, Sharad Pawar clarified that apart from Sunetra's younger son, Jay, no other members of the Pawar family attended the ceremony. When questioned about the timing being hasty, the 85-year-old leader emphasized that this was an internal decision of the NCP, not a family matter.
"Sunil Tatkare and Praful Patel seemed to have taken the lead in the process and set their party's priorities," Pawar stated, referring to the NCP functionaries who met Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis in Mumbai on Friday to formalize Sunetra's election as the NCP legislative party leader and deputy CM.
Lack of Consultation and Emotional Support
Sharad Pawar admitted he learned about Sunetra's selection as Ajit Pawar's successor through news reports. "I do not have much idea about it. We, as family members, are there to support each other emotionally. But as far as political decisions are concerned, it is their party's internal call," he explained.
He further noted that there was no discussion within the family on this issue, with the decision being made in Mumbai by senior party members. "The decision was taken in Mumbai by their party seniors, and I do not want to comment on it," Pawar added, maintaining a respectful distance from the political maneuvering.
Void Left by Ajit Pawar and Family Dynamics
The sudden passing of his nephew has created a huge void, Pawar acknowledged, praising Ajit Pawar's grassroots connect and diligent approach to issues. "His demise is a huge loss. However, we will have to move on. I am confident that the younger generation from our family will take up the responsibility," he expressed, highlighting the need to encourage the next generation.
However, the extended Pawar family was reportedly upset when Sunetra and her younger son Jay left for Mumbai on Friday night without consulting Sharad Pawar and other senior members. After Ajit Pawar's ashes were immersed, family members gathered at Sharad Pawar's Baramati residence, but Sunetra and her sons did not join them.
A close associate of the Pawar family disclosed, "When one of the family members made a call to Ajit Pawar's family member, they found out that Sunetra and her younger son Jay had already left for Mumbai." This incident underscores the complex interplay between family emotions and political strategies in the wake of a significant loss.
