Mumbai: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has landed at the centre of a political storm after a controversial remark he made while campaigning in Baramati’s Malegaon town. Addressing voters ahead of the Malegaon Nagar Panchayat elections, Pawar bluntly stated that while citizens “hold the votes,” he “holds the funds,” adding that financial support to the region would depend on whether voters elected candidates from his party.
Pawar, who leads the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) in the state’s ruling alliance and also controls the crucial finance portfolio, was campaigning for 18 party candidates on Friday when he made the statement. His comments quickly drew criticism from the Opposition, which accused him of pressuring voters and misusing his position.
During his rally, Pawar highlighted the Centre’s and Maharashtra government’s development schemes, saying coordinated work between all departments could lead to rapid progress for Malegaon. He assured the crowd that if the entire slate of 18 NCP candidates was elected, “there will be absolutely no shortage of funds” for the town.
However, he added a cautionary note that intensified the controversy: “If you reject our candidates, then I will also reject. You have votes, I have funds.”
Pawar urged voters to trust the NCP, insisting that the party’s efforts would mirror the development seen in Baramati.
He said the past should be forgotten and a “new beginning” made, promising Malegaon the same focused development his home constituency had received.
Opposition parties reacted sharply to Pawar’s statement, accusing him of openly threatening voters and attempting to influence the election using government resources. Several leaders also questioned why the Election Commission had not yet taken note of the remarks, calling for immediate intervention and scrutiny.
