Hindu-Muslim Row: Ajit Pawar Says NCP Will Act Against MLA Sangram Jagtap
Pune, 11th October 2025: Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Saturday strongly criticized Ahilyanagar MLA Sangram Jagtap for his recent controversial remarks urging people to purchase only from Hindu-owned shops during Diwali. Pawar said Jagtap had previously been warned for such statements and had assured the party leadership that he would change his stance, but “no improvement” was seen.
“However, there has been no change. Jagtap continues to make statements that go against the objectives and policies of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP),” Pawar said, adding that the party would issue a formal notice to him.
The remarks were made during a public interaction organized by the NCP at Navale Lawns in Pune. Pawar reiterated that the NCP stands for social harmony and inclusivity across all communities.
“When Arun Kaka Jagtap was active, everything functioned smoothly. Afterward, Sangram Jagtap began taking a different path. Despite being warned and promising to improve, there has been no change. His comments targeting the Muslim community violate the party’s ideology. Hence, a notice will be issued,” Pawar stated.
Without directly naming Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray, Pawar also took a swipe at opposition leaders associated with the Hambarda Morcha, criticizing their frequent demands for higher relief packages.
“During any disaster, the government first assesses the situation, gathers data, and then announces aid. Opposition leaders demand more assistance, but they should also reflect on what they did when they were in power. Our government has provided funds and grains to flood-affected farmers. We are working to release the announced ₹350 crore package before Diwali,” he said.
On the upcoming local body elections, Pawar clarified that the approach would differ across districts and talukas.
“Earlier, local leaders had autonomy to contest as independents. The same approach will continue. However, decisions regarding municipal elections will be taken jointly by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and myself,” Pawar explained.
Commenting on the proposed Purandar Airport project, Pawar said:
“Land prices in Purandar have increased, which is beyond our control. The project requires 6,000 acres of land, including 3,000 acres for two runways. Land acquisition will proceed as planned.”
When asked about Cooperation Minister Balasaheb Patil’s remarks about farmers, Pawar responded: “Balasaheb Patil should refrain from making inaccurate statements about farmers. I will personally guide him after a discussion.”
He also responded to criticism from former MLA Ravindra Dhangekar over the Nilesh Ghaywal case.
“Dhangekar still thinks he’s with Congress, but he is now with Shiv Sena under Eknath Shinde’s leadership. Everyone in the alliance must adhere to its principles and discipline,” Pawar said.
Pawar’s remarks highlighted the NCP leadership’s firm position on maintaining party discipline, promoting communal harmony, and ensuring accountability among its members.
