Sharad Pawar Criticizes Centre, Calls for Opposition Unity at NCP-SP’s 26th Foundation Day in Pune

Shivajinagar, 10th June 2025: The Nationalist Congress Party – Sharadchandra Pawar (NCP-SP) celebrated its 26th Foundation Day, the second since the party’s split, at Balgandharva Theatre in Shivajinagar, Pune. Veteran leader Sharad Pawar criticized the central government and addressed several key issues. Baramati MP Supriya Sule, NCP-SP Maharashtra President Jayant Patil, and other leaders were present.

Speaking about national and geopolitical developments, Sharad Pawar said, “There was a time when Jawaharlal Nehru’s leadership brought everyone together. However, today, India’s relations with Pakistan and China are strained. India made sacrifices for Bangladesh, but even that country is not with us now. Our relations with Sri Lanka also do not seem friendly. Those who led the country failed to consciously create harmony, and the country is now suffering the consequences. Leftist parties, along with the NCP, Congress, and others, should unite to restore harmony in Delhi.”

Pawar continued, “Women will be given greater opportunities in the upcoming local body elections. When given a chance, women prove their capabilities. The country is proud of women’s achievements in the army during ‘Operation Sindoor.’” He added, “On matters of national interest, the NCP has never played politics. After the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, we took the same stand and supported the government’s decision.”

Announcing her future plans, Supriya Sule said, “I expect all of us to work in every nook and corner of the state. I will soon embark on a statewide tour. I believe the situation in the state is very serious—the Hagawane case is an example.” Sule also spoke about the Hagawane family’s long association with Sharad Pawar and Congress values, but expressed grief over the family’s daughter-in-law dying by suicide due to dowry. She called for a Maharashtra free from dowry, urging everyone to work together for social change and justice.

Relieve Me From Maharashtra President Responsibilities: Jayant Patil

Maharashtra State President for NCP-SP, Jayant Patil, made a significant announcement. Addressing party leaders and workers, Patil requested Sharad Pawar to relieve him from the state president’s responsibilities, emphasizing the need to give opportunities to new faces in the party. He expressed gratitude to Sharad Pawar for trusting him with the role for seven years and thanked all party members for their support.

Patil’s statement has sparked speculation about whether he will step down and who might succeed him as state president. As an experienced and balanced leader, his possible exit raises questions about the party’s future leadership. Before making his request, Patil encouraged party workers to stay motivated, drawing inspiration from the BJP’s rise from just two MPs to the country’s largest party, and urged everyone to work hard to win future political battles for the party.