Jagran Correspondent, Mumbai: Amid the speculations of veteran Sharad Pawar joining the ruling NDA in Maharashtra, union minister of state Ramdas Athawale has extended an invitation to the NCP (SP) chief. Athawale, while speaking on the reports, stated that Pawar's vast political experience could benefit the state and the country. Pawar has been a key figure in the opposition's Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA); however, recent reports suggest that he might consider switching sides.
'Will Benefit NDA's Politics'
While talking to the reporters, Athawale stated that Pawar has been active in the state and national politics for the past several decades. He further stated that the government will get massive benefit if Pawar decides to join the ruling alliance. While recalling his long-standing political relationship with Pawar, Athawale stated that he gave valuable suggestions to the NCP founder in the past.
"When we were with Pawar Saheb, I advised him to merge with the Congress. Had he heeded that advice, he might have become the prime minister of the country," Athawale asserted. Amid such speculations, the Sharad Pawar-led NCP has not released any official statement on the controversy yet.
Row Over Pawar's Meeting With Shinde
Earlier, a massive row erupted after Pawar met Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde in his chamber. While the NCP veteran did not provide details of the meeting, the reports suggested that he could consider joining the ruling alliance. However, Rohit Pawar, grand-nephew of Sharad Pawar, has reportedly opposed this proposal.
Apart from this, the opposition camp has been rocked by the reports suggesting Shinde Sena's secret meeting with the MLAs of Uddhav Thackeray's Sena and NCP (SP). As per the latest reports, under the alleged Operation Tiger 3, several MLAs of the opposition alliance, especially from NCP (SP) and Uddhav Sena, are considering switching sides.
However, amid all these reports, none of the parties have released any official statement regarding any change in the political dynamics of the state.