Sharad Pawar Undeterred By Nephew's Rebellion, Declares His Commitment To Rebuilding NCP

Following a recent political setback caused by his nephew's unexpected rebellion, Sharad Pawar, the veteran supremo of the Nationalist Congress Party, demonstrated his strength while paying tribute to his mentor, Yashwantrao Chavan — at his memorial in Karad — on the occasion of Guru Purnima.

On Monday (3 July) morning, Sharad Pawar departed from Pune to Karad. Along the way, he took the opportunity to meet and receive support from his enthusiastic supporters who had gathered on the roadsides.

Ajit Pawar orchestrated a split within the NCP on Sunday (2 July), leading to his appointment as the deputy chief minister in the Eknath Shinde-BJP government.

In an impassioned speech to his supporters, Pawar accused the BJP of attempting to dismantle all Opposition parties and pledged to rebuild the NCP.

Sharad Pawar said "Today, in Maharashtra and the country, a rift is being created between the society in the name of caste and religion by some groups," adding that rebels can return, but there is a time limit to this.

Undaunted by his nephew Ajit Pawar's rebellion, the 82-year-old leader remains resolute and plans to reconnect with the people, starting anew.

Pawar while speaking in Karad said "My fight against communal forces begins today. Such rebellions happen. I will rebuild the party". He also alleged that the BJP was trying to instil fear in society.

Upon his arrival in Karad, Sharad Pawar was warmly welcomed by thousands of supporters and local MLA Balasaheb Patil.

MLA Makarand Patil, who had been present at Ajit Pawar's residence before his swearing-in, also extended a warm welcome to Sharad Pawar in Karad.

Despite their strained relations, Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan appeared alongside Sharad Pawar to demonstrate a united Opposition in the face of the crisis.