Supriya Sule, the cousin of Ajit Pawar, has strongly criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in light of the Nationalist Congress Party’s (NCP) decision to field Sunetra Pawar, the wife of Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, against her in the Baramati constituency. Sule alleged that this move by the saffron party aims to politically undermine NCP founder Sharad Pawar.
Despite this intra-family political rivalry, Sule emphasized that her respect for Sunetra Pawar remains unwavering, describing her as her “elder brother’s wife and like a mother.” The Lok Sabha MP’s comments come in response to the heightened electoral contest in Baramati, scheduled for May 7.
This electoral battle presents a formidable challenge for Sule, who seeks a fourth term from Baramati. Her opponent, Sunetra Pawar, although not previously contesting elections, holds significant influence due to her involvement in social circles and her association with various organizations, including the Vidya Pratishthan.
Additionally, Sunetra Pawar’s role in Ajit Pawar’s decision to join the BJP-led camp last year adds another dimension to the electoral dynamics in Baramati. Both candidates have been actively campaigning in the constituency, reflecting the intensity of the contest.
The political rivalry within the Pawar family underscores the fallout from the split within the original NCP, with Ajit Pawar aligning himself with the ruling BJP and Shiv Sena last year.
Sule further criticized the BJP’s strategy, accusing them of resorting to “dirty politics” by fielding Sunetra Pawar against her. She alleged that the move is not aimed at development but rather to undermine Sharad Pawar and his legacy.
Addressing the rift with Ajit Pawar, Sule asserted that attempts to create divisions among Marathi-speaking people are a blow to Maharashtra’s identity. Despite ideological differences, Sule reiterated her respect for Sunetra Pawar, maintaining that she will continue to regard her as a motherly figure.
In response to Sule’s comments, BJP’s state women’s wing chief Chitra Wagh dismissed allegations of fear within the Sule camp, stating that the BJP does not need to resort to divisive tactics. She emphasized the wisdom of the Pawar family in making decisions, alluding to Ajit Pawar’s rebellion and subsequent return to the NCP fold.
