Political activity in Maharashtra is intensifying ahead of the Assembly elections. In this vein, former MLA Rahul Mothe formally joined the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) led by Ajit Pawar on Tuesday, August 5th, giving a new turn to the political equations. Mothe was previously associated with the Sharad Pawar-led faction, NCP (SP), and has been a legislator from the Bhum-Paranda constituency. During a program held in Mumbai, Deputy CM Ajit Pawar welcomed him into the party, calling the occasion a significant step towards party expansion. He stated that the arrival of experienced leaders like him would strengthen the organization at the grassroots level.
Need for Politics Transcending Caste and Religion
On the occasion of Rahul Mothe joining the party, Ajit Pawar addressed the workers, emphasizing the need for inclusive politics. He said that in today's time, we must rise above caste, religion, or creed and have a social and political perspective. He cited the example of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's establishment of Swarajya, saying that he laid the foundation of ideal governance by taking all sections of society along, and that same spirit needs to be adopted even today.
Ajit Pawar also clarified that the party's foundation was laid under the guidance of senior leaders, but now the participation of new leadership and workers is necessary to further empower it. He highlighted the importance of the participation of youth and grassroots leaders in giving new energy to the NCP's 26-year political journey.
It is noteworthy that the NCP was founded on June 10, 1999, by Sharad Pawar. However, in the year 2023, Ajit Pawar separated from him and started a new political chapter, forming a separate faction under his leadership.
Ajit Pawar Looked Strict Regarding Social Media and Discipline
In his address, Ajit Pawar strictly instructed party workers to adhere to discipline. He said that social media has become a very influential medium today, and any irresponsible statement by any worker can damage the image of the entire organization. Therefore, it has become very important to speak thoughtfully on public platforms.
Along with this, he called upon all the workers to get involved in the preparations for the upcoming local body elections. He also said that development work cannot be done effectively while sitting in the opposition, but only while being in power.
Big Leaders From Several Districts in Ajit Pawar's Camp
Apart from Rahul Mothe, several prominent leaders and office bearers from Dharashiv, Ahilyanagar, and Akola districts also joined the Ajit Pawar-led NCP. The arrival of these leaders in the party is being considered a big step from an organizational point of view.
Ajit Pawar said that this is not just an expansion of membership, but a concrete effort towards strengthening the backbone of the organization. He expressed hope that the arrival of these new faces would give new energy to the party at the lower level and its positive effect will be visible in the upcoming elections.