PUNE, 9 NOV. Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar issued a clarification, stating, "I have no connection with the Koregaon Park land purchase case, but since the matter involves my blood relatives, I have clarified my position. A detailed investigation into the entire matter is underway. Therefore, I neither did anything wrong yesterday nor will I do anything of the sort in the future." Speaking to reporters at his residence in Sahayog Society, Baramati, he also stated that if anyone has any objection regarding the land purchase case in Baramati, they should file a complaint and the truth will come out on its own.

During the interaction, he expressed his regret, saying that such issues are brought up as elections approach, which is unfortunate. He mentioned that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has ordered a thorough investigation into the Koregaon Park land case. Competent administrative officers have been appointed to this inquiry committee, ensuring that the investigation will be conducted impartially. He also expressed surprise regarding the process by which the land transfer occurred, reiterating that everyone knows he has never allowed any wrongdoings under his watch.

He issued a strict message to officials, stating that if anyone, even a close relative, uses his name to pressure them, the officials should not succumb to the pressure. He explicitly told the officers that all work should be done strictly within the legal framework.

Pawar noted that allegations are frequently leveled against him whenever elections are near. He confirmed that the transaction involving the land transferred to the Cooperative Purchase and Sale Union in Medad, Baramati Taluka, was also conducted completely legally. He urged anyone with objections to file a complaint.

Full Stop on Jay Pawar's Candidacy for Mayor

When questioned whether Jay Pawar would be the candidate for the post of Baramati Mayor (Nagaradhyaksha), Deputy Chief Minister Pawar clarified, "I have heard this discussion too, but Jay Pawar will not be the candidate." He stated that interviews will be conducted for the mayoral aspirants, and the most suitable candidate will be given the ticket. He added that the Nationalist Party has a large number of aspirants for the posts of Mayor and Corporator (Nagarsevak). Therefore, an appropriate decision will be taken based on all available information. He appealed to interested candidates not to file their applications until Wednesday. He concluded by saying that efforts are being made to contest the local body elections in alliance with like-minded parties, but the final decision will be taken according to the local situation.

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