Won’t deviate from ideologies of Phule, Ambedkar, Shivaji Maharaj: Ajit Pawar

Speaking at an executive meeting of NCP functionaries in Mumbai’s Garware Club Hall, the Deputy Chief Minister reiterated the party’s commitment to the welfare of all societal segments, including minorities.

“The decisions regarding welfare of minority communities were taken during the Mahayuti government’s tenure. The ideologies of Shivaji, Phule, Shahu and Ambedkar are the core of our party, and we will not deviate from these ideologies, even if it means paying a hefty price for it,” Pawar said.

“In our dialogue in Delhi, where we aligned with the BJP, we made it unequivocally clear to Prime Minister Modi, Shah, and Nadda that we stand alongside them in the pursuit of development and in elevating the nation’s stature globally,” Pawar remarked.

“Hence, there is no room for deviation from our party’s ideals,” he added.

During his address that lasted around 30 minutes, Pawar urged party workers to concentrate on gearing up for the upcoming Assembly elections.

Expressing concerns over seat-sharing arrangements within the Mahayuti alliance for the upcoming Assembly elections, senior NCP leader and state minister Chhagan Bhujbal urged Ajit Pawar to ensure that the party secures 80-90 seats.

Bhujbal highlighted “discrepancies” in seat allocations during the Lok Sabha polls and emphasized the necessity for equitable distribution this time around.

“The criteria set for seat allocation in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections should not dictate the Assembly polls. The BJP pledged 80-90 seats to us when we joined the alliance, and we must hold them to their commitment,” Bhujbal said during the meeting.

Meanwhile, Ajit Pawar announced plans for various programmes across the state to commemorate the 25th doundation day of the NCP on June10.