PUNE: NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar criticized the recent Maharashtra Assembly elections, claiming unprecedented misuse of power and money to manipulate the election process. Speaking during his visit to Dr. Baba Adhav’s protest in Pune, Pawar alleged electoral malpractice, including potential EVM tampering, under the Mahayuti alliance’s administration.
Dr. Adhav, a veteran activist in his 90s, is staging a three-day protest at Phule Wada, decrying the alleged erosion of democratic principles. Pawar urged citizens to unite in resisting actions threatening parliamentary democracy.
Pawar also accused the ruling government of silencing opposition voices in Parliament and manipulating democratic norms to maintain power. The opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi, which includes Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and NCP factions, has demanded greater accountability for alleged election irregularities.
The Mahayuti alliance, led by the BJP, Shiv Sena, and a splinter NCP faction, won 230 of 288 seats in the November elections, raising widespread concerns among opposition parties and civil society about the fairness of the polls.
Pawar stressed the need for a “mass revolt” to protect India’s democracy, drawing comparisons to late socialist leader Jayaprakash Narayan’s efforts during the Emergency. “Baba Adhav’s protest is inspiring, but collective action is essential to ensure democratic processes remain intact,” he said.
This controversial election has triggered nationwide debates, with political observers highlighting growing public discontent over alleged authoritarian tactics.
— Web Team, C6N
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