There has been a recent rift in the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) led by Sharad Pawar, after his nephew Ajit Pawar made remarks about his retirement. Ajit, who was recently sworn in as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, questioned why politicians do not retire like bureaucrats do at a certain age. He specifically mentioned BJP leaders like LK Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi, who retired at the age of 75, allowing the new generation to rise in the party.
Ajit Pawar also mentioned that his uncle, Sharad Pawar, who is 83 years old, should consider retirement and pass on his blessings to the younger generation. However, Supriya Sule, Ajit’s cousin and NCP leader, was quick to defend her father, Sharad Pawar, stating that he is not only her father but also the father figure for all NCP workers. She pointed out that individuals like Cyrus Poonawalla of Serum Institute, who is 82 years old, and Amitabh Bachchan, who is 80 years old, are still actively working.
In a meeting chaired by Sharad Pawar, the NCP Working Committee passed eight resolutions. One of the key decisions was to expel Praful Patel, Sunil Tatkare, and nine others who had joined hands with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Sharad Pawar was also elected as the national president of the party during the meeting.
NCP leader P C Chacko reaffirmed the party’s loyalty to Sharad Pawar, dismissing claims made by others regarding the national presidency. He stated that the organization remains intact and fully supportive of Sharad Pawar’s leadership.
These recent events have created divisions within the NCP and have raised questions about the leadership and future of the party. Some believe that it is time for the older generation to step aside and make room for the younger politicians to take charge. Others argue that experience and wisdom should not be dismissed solely based on age.
It remains to be seen how the NCP will navigate these internal conflicts and maintain its political influence. The upcoming decisions and actions of Sharad Pawar and the party leadership will play a crucial role in shaping the future trajectory of the NCP and its standing within the political landscape of Maharashtra.
