“As Many People, So Many Opinions, But Match Will Happen”: Ajit Pawar on India–Pakistan Match
Hadapsar, 13th September 2025: On the eve of the high-voltage Asia Cup clash between India and Pakistan scheduled on September 14 in the UAE, political debates have heated up over whether India should play Pakistan. Responding to the issue, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar said that while diverse opinions exist in a country of 140 crore people, the final decision has already been taken at the appropriate level.
“Throughout history, we have seen Pakistan as an adversary. While some believe we should not play them, others feel sports should not be mixed with politics. As many people, so many opinions—but as per my information, the match will take place. The decision has already been taken at the right level,” Pawar said.
He was addressing a public interaction program at Hadapsar, Pune, where he also urged citizens to maintain peace and unity. “I thank all citizens for their cooperation. We will resolve local issues such as roads, drainage, and streetlights. Officers are present to address public grievances, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure a positive atmosphere in the city,” he assured.
On Satara Gazette Issue
When asked about the Satara Gazette controversy, Pawar clarified that Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has already assured that no injustice will be done and that the matter will be resolved through dialogue.
On Reports of Rift in Leadership
Dismissing speculation of differences between CM Shinde and Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, Pawar said, “There is no such rift. If needed, I can even give it in writing. We three (Shinde, Fadnavis, and Pawar) work together, and whenever we meet, we have never felt any discord. Both leaders are working well, and our collective effort is to ensure good governance in the state.”
On Ayush Komkar Murder Case
Pawar also commented on the recent murder of Ayush Komkar in Nana Peth, Pune, ahead of Ganesh Visarjan. He expressed concern over the growing involvement of minors in serious crimes. “The Centre must reconsider lowering the age thresholds of 18 and 21, as young boys are getting involved in heinous acts. In this case, police have arrested seven accused and invoked MCOCA. We have instructed the police to conduct the investigation transparently, without any political pressure. Juvenile crime must be curbed,” he said.
