Pune: Chhagan Bhujbal’s Friendly Interaction with Sharad Pawar at Chakan Event Raises Eyebrows
Reported By Varad Bhatkhande
Chakan, 3rd January 2025: The unveiling ceremony of Savitribai Phule’s statue, marking her birth anniversary, was held today at the Market Committee in Chakan, Pune district. The event saw the presence of veteran political leaders and former allies, now rivals, Chhagan Bhujbal and Sharad Pawar on stage. Their visible conversation has sparked political debate, especially given Bhujbal’s recent discontent with his current party.
Sharad Pawar was set to unveil the statue, while former minister Chhagan Bhujbal presided over the event, placing them side by side on stage. Bhujbal arrived 1.5 hours late, keeping Pawar waiting. Once both were on stage, they engaged in discussion and shared laughter as the event concluded.
In 2023, Sharad Pawar’s nephew Ajit Pawar rebelled against him, joining the Mahayuti Government to become Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister. Many of Sharad Pawar’s close aides, including Chhagan Bhujbal, joined Ajit Pawar, leading to fierce rivalry between the two Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) factions. Bhujbal was appointed as Cabinet Minister of Food and Civil Supply, Consumer Affairs.
Bhujbal campaigned heavily for Mahayuti and against Sharad Pawar in both the Lok Sabha and Maharashtra Legislative Assembly Elections. However, after winning his sixth term from Yeola in the Assembly Elections, Bhujbal was unexpectedly excluded from a cabinet position. This decision led to his public expression of disappointment, reportedly straining his relationship with Ajit Pawar.
Bhujbal’s statement to the media, “Jahan Nahi Chaina Waha Nahi Rehena” (Don’t stay where the heart isn’t), has fueled speculation about his potential departure. Today’s friendly interaction with Sharad Pawar has raised serious questions about both veterans’ political futures.
