MUMBAI: Amid recent claims regarding Gautam Adani’s alleged involvement in political strategy discussions, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has denied reports of the business magnate’s presence in high-stakes meetings concerning the Nationalist Congress Party’s (NCP) alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). These meetings, held to strategize for the upcoming Maharashtra assembly elections, reportedly included prominent figures like Union Home Minister Amit Shah and NCP founder Sharad Pawar. Ajit Pawar, however, clarified that Adani was not part of any such political dialogues, directly contradicting circulating rumors.
Clarity Amid Speculation
The speculation arose as Maharashtra prepares for assembly elections on November 20, 2024. According to recent reports, key players in the NCP-BJP alliance were believed to be meeting with Adani, raising questions about the intersection between politics and business. Addressing the media, Ajit Pawar stated firmly that Adani had no role in the ongoing political arrangements. “He was not present,” said Pawar, debunking claims and reaffirming the clarity he seeks to maintain around his political moves.
Sharad Pawar’s Connections with Adani
Ajit Pawar also addressed a meeting between Sharad Pawar and Adani, clarifying that the interaction was unrelated to any political maneuvers. While Sharad Pawar, as a long-time figure in both political and social circles, is acquainted with Adani, their association remains professional and non-political, Ajit Pawar added. The statement comes amidst continued calls from opposition parties for a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe into Adani Group’s alleged business practices following the Hindenburg report’s findings earlier this year.
Strategic Vision for the NCP-BJP Alliance
As the Maharashtra elections near, the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance, which includes Ajit Pawar’s faction of the NCP and the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, is preparing to secure a substantial majority in the 288-member assembly. Ajit Pawar has expressed confidence in the alliance’s performance, aiming to retain voter trust while distancing from the ongoing controversies linking political leaders to powerful business figures.
Web Team, C6N
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