‘We are politicians, not saints’: Ajit Pawar defends decision to join NDA

NCP chief Ajit Pawar on Tuesday addressed the media in Pune, defending his and his colleagues' decision to align with the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Pawar emphasized the pragmatic nature of political decisions, stating, “We are politicians, not saints,” to highlight the necessity of strategic alliances in the ever-evolving political landscape. His remarks come amidst criticism for rebelling against his uncle, Sharad Pawar, a veteran leader in Indian politics. Ajit Pawar explained that the move to join the NDA was driven by a commitment to development and governance, suggesting that collaboration with the ruling coalition would better serve the interests of their constituencies. He argued that realpolitik often requires making difficult choices to ensure effective leadership and resource allocation. This decision, he asserted, aligns with the broader goals of bringing progress and stability to the region. The decision has sparked a debate within the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and the wider political community. While some view the alliance as a betrayal of the party's foundational principles, others see it as a necessary step to maintain relevance and influence in contemporary politics. As the political dynamics continue to shift, Ajit Pawar remains resolute, urging critics to focus on the potential benefits of this new alignment for their constituents.

— Authored by Next24 Live