By Milind Pol, Tasgaon

The question increasingly troubling ordinary citizens today is: Where exactly is Maharashtra's politics headed? Political disagreements, electoral contests, shifts in power, and ideological battles are natural components of a healthy democracy. However, the developments of the past few years have raised serious concerns about the very foundations of democratic values.

Former Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar once famously remarked, "Politics is a dirty game." Many may have dismissed the statement as a casual observation, but recent events have made the underlying truth of those words far more evident. Political competition, ideological conviction, and public service appear to be giving way to a culture where power is pursued at any cost.

Maharashtra has long been known as a land of ideas, social reform, and dignified political traditions. The legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's Swarajya, Mahatma Phule's social revolution, Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj's progressive governance, and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's vision of equality shaped a political culture rooted in principles and ideology. Political parties differed, leaders clashed, and opinions diverged, but there were values, boundaries, and convictions that guided public life.

Today, however, those distinctions seem increasingly blurred. Political ideology often appears secondary to immediate calculations of power. Leaders who were yesterday accused of corruption, misgovernance, or betraying public trust suddenly become symbols of development and integrity the moment they switch sides. Fierce opponents become allies overnight, while former allies transform into political enemies with equal speed.

For the average voter, such developments are both confusing and disheartening. Citizens cast their votes based on party ideologies, declared policies, and the promises made by political leaders. Yet the post-election realignments often leave them wondering whether their vote, their trust, and their expectations carry any meaning at all.

Particularly troubling is the growing culture of political engineering through defections and party splits. This was never a defining feature of Maharashtra's political tradition. Political disagreements existed, but systematically weakening opponents by breaking parties, inducing elected representatives to switch loyalties, and using political power to undermine rivals was not considered acceptable political conduct. Maharashtra witnessed fierce electoral battles, victories, and defeats, but the contest was largely one of ideas rather than organized efforts to dismantle political opponents.

The greatest victims of this trend are often grassroots party workers. Many dedicate years, sometimes decades, to a particular ideology, organization, and leadership. They make sacrifices, engage with communities, and defend their party's position in public. Yet they frequently find themselves working alongside individuals whom they once opposed politically and who, after crossing over, are rewarded with prestigious positions. Such circumstances inevitably raise questions about the value of loyalty and commitment.

The growing unease among citizens is therefore not merely dissatisfaction with one political party or another. It reflects a deeper anxiety about the state of democracy itself. Democracy is not merely about holding elections. It is built upon public trust, respect for commitments, adherence to ethical standards, and the sanctity of the people's mandate.

History repeatedly reminds us that no political power is permanent. Many empires were built upon wealth, influence, and overwhelming authority, yet few survived the test of time. Even Ravana, blessed with immense power and divine boons, ultimately fell because of his arrogance. His golden kingdom was reduced to ashes. The lesson remains relevant: public sentiment and the judgment of history are often stronger than political power.

This is why many citizens today are increasingly concerned. Rising unemployment, widening economic inequality, growing political opportunism, and declining trust in democratic institutions are creating layers of public frustration. If these grievances converge, the consequences could be significant. History across the world has shown that public anger, when ignored for too long, can trigger profound political transformations.

Both those in power and those in opposition would do well to recognize this reality. The true strength of democracy does not lie in the corridors of power but in the confidence people place in the system. When citizens begin to feel that their vote, their aspirations, and their trust are repeatedly disregarded, democracy itself faces a serious challenge.

Maharashtra today does not need new political slogans or yet another political formation. What it needs is political honesty, ideological commitment, respect for public promises, and above all, recognition that democracy is greater than any individual leader or government.

Maharashtra is not merely a laboratory for political experiments. It is the land of saints, social reformers, intellectuals, and a proud democratic heritage. It has elevated many leaders to positions of power, but it has also demonstrated the ability to hold them accountable when necessary.

Governments change. Parties split and merge. Political faces and slogans evolve. But once public trust is broken, rebuilding it becomes extraordinarily difficult.

The most important question today is not who occupies the seat of power. The real question is: Who will step forward to preserve the values, principles, and ethical foundations that once defined Maharashtra's politics?

Even if that answer is not found today, history will undoubtedly demand it tomorrow.

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Akola, 8 Nov 2025

Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar faction) chief Sharad Pawar on Friday commented on the alleged land scam involving a company linked to Parth Pawar, son of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, saying that if the Chief Minister himself terms the case serious, then it must indeed be serious.

Speaking to reporters in Akola, Pawar said, “The allegations have been made, and those who have raised them should bring out the facts. If the Chief Minister believes the Koregaon Park land case is serious, then it definitely must be so.”

He pointed out that government officers, including the sub-registrar, had already cancelled the land transaction, implying there must be substantial evidence for such an action. “Officials don’t act without proof. A thorough inquiry should be conducted and strict legal action should follow,” Pawar demanded.

In the Koregaon Park-Mundhwa land deal, Amadea Enterprises LLP allegedly purchased 40 acres of land valued at ₹1,800 crore for just ₹300 crore, reportedly for setting up an IT park and data centre. The Directorate of Industries also waived stamp duty, allowing the registration to be completed with a stamp paper worth only ₹500.

While an FIR has been filed against businessman Digvijay Patil, who holds just 1% stake in the company, no case has been registered against Parth Pawar, who owns a larger share. When asked about this discrepancy, Sharad Pawar replied, “That is a question for the Home Minister to answer.”

The opposition has launched sharp criticism against the state government, calling the deal a blatant case of corruption and misuse of power.

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Baramati, Shrikant Tilak

If Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and Agriculture Minister Dattatray Bharane had not extended support, the Chhatrapati Co-operative Sugar Factory would not have been able to start operations. However, to make this crushing season successful, members must supply their sugarcane to the Chhatrapati factory itself. The factory will definitely regain its former glory, expressed the factory’s Chairman, Prithviraj Jachak.

The sugarcane crushing season at Shri Chhatrapati Co-operative Sugar Factory, Bhavaninagar, commenced with the traditional lighting of the boiler by director Madhuri Rajpure and her husband Sagar Rajpure, along with Suchita Sapkal and her husband Sachin Sapkal. On this occasion, Chairman Jachak addressed the gathering.

Former Chairman Prashant Kate, Vice-Chairman Kailas Gawde, Directors Ashok Patil, Ramchandra Nimbalkar, Shivaji Nimbalkar, Manthan Kamble, Ajit Patil, Anil Kate, Dr. Yogesh Patil, Tanaji Shinde, Executive Director Ashok Jadhav, along with other directors and dignitaries were present.

Jachak said, “For smooth operations of this crushing season and to ensure good sugar recovery, the cooperation of members, officials, and workers is crucial. After launching the ‘My Factory, My Responsibility’ campaign, the board of directors, officials, and staff have been working together effectively. Therefore, workers will be given bonuses as per tradition. Last year, due to low cane supply, the factory suffered losses. But this season, if members provide their cane to Chhatrapati, the target of crushing 12 lakh metric tons will surely be achieved.”

He further stated, “Chhatrapati factory is like a mother to me. It is only because of the strong support of Deputy CM Ajit Pawar and Agriculture Minister Dattatray Bharane that this crushing season has begun. If the factory achieves 12 lakh metric tons of cane crushing and 11.5% sugar recovery over two seasons, it will certainly overcome financial difficulties. Chhatrapati will also not lag behind in cane payment rates.”

Former Chairman Prashant Kate remarked that because many members supplied their sugarcane to outside factories, Chhatrapati suffered huge losses. He appealed to members to now supply their cane to the factory in large numbers to ensure its survival and success.

On this occasion, speeches were also delivered by Tanajirao Thorat, Vishal Nimbalkar, Ashok Kale, Santosh Chavan, Ravindra Takle, Tarachand Darade, and Rayate Maharaj. The programme was introduced by Executive Director Ashok Jadhav, while worker leader Yuvraj Ranavare conducted the proceedings.

“Chhatrapati is like my mother” – Jachak

“I hold a very special place in my heart for the Shri Chhatrapati Co-operative Sugar Factory. I consider this factory as my mother. The boiler inauguration ceremony of this factory was conducted at the hands of my late father Sahebrao Jachak and my mother, when I was still in her womb. Hence, I have deep emotional attachment towards this factory. With the backing of Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, Agriculture Minister Dattatray Bharane, and the cooperation of all members, I am confident that Chhatrapati will certainly come out of its difficulties and regain its glory,” Jachak expressed.

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Baramati | Correspondent

Despite being denied permission to hold the OBC Elgar Morcha in Baramati due to Ganeshotsav and Eid-e-Milad security arrangements, Prof. Laxman Hake and 14 protesters went ahead with the march. Consequently, the Baramati City Police registered cases against them. However, the protesters alleged that this action was taken only on the orders of Guardian Minister and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar.

On Thursday, Prof. Hake, carrying a copy of the Constitution in his hand, along with several protesters, entered the Baramati City Police Station. They demanded, “Put us in jail instead of targeting us unjustly.” Expressing anger, Prof. Hake questioned why no action was taken against activist Manoj Jarange Patil, while peaceful protesters like them were booked.

Police officials, including Inspector Vilas Nale, tried to pacify the protesters. After serving them a formal notice, the agitators returned.

Recently, under Hake’s leadership, the OBC Elgar Morcha was organized peacefully. Yet, the police filed cases against 14 individuals, sparking allegations of political vendetta. Protesters claimed the government was shielding Manoj Jarange Patil despite his caste-based remarks, while constitutional protests were being criminalized.

Several supporters, including Kaluram Chaudhary, Bapurao Solankar, Navnath Padalkar, Adv. Amol Satkar, Adv. Govind Devkate, Adv. G. B. Gawade, Kishor Masal, and Chandrakant Waghmode, were present during the protest at the police station.

Is the Government Afraid of Manoj Jarange?” Prof. Hake, addressing the media, alleged:

We protested peacefully in Baramati, yet on Ajit Pawar’s orders, cases were filed against us. Jarange made objectionable remarks against the Dhangar community but faces no action. Does he run the government? Is the state afraid of him?”

Police made us write that we will not repeat such protests. Does this mean we have no right to demand our reservation through peaceful movements?

He further alleged that in Beed district, where Ajit Pawar is the Guardian Minister, cases were filed against him, he was attacked, and his colleagues faced life-threatening assaults, but no cases were registered against the culprits. He also criticized Pawar for withholding funds from the Mahajyoti Corporation.

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By Rahi Bhide

The Maharashtra government is now facing the consequences of how burdensome the promise of reservation can be. The storm led by Manoj Jarange has hit Mumbai, triggering political chaos. Leaders like Devendra Fadnavis, Eknath Shinde, and Ajit Pawar are in power, and earlier promises to grant reservation to the Maratha community are now under pressure. If the government provides reservation following the community’s aggressive stance, it risks alienating OBC votes. Jarange insists that the Maratha and OBC categories are one and the same, prompting the government to explore ways to resolve this impasse.

Manoj Jarange Patil, the face of the Maratha reservation movement, began an indefinite hunger strike at Azad Maidan, Mumbai, on Friday. He warned that he would not back down until the government meets the community’s demands. His ultimatum — “Either give reservation or shoot me or let me die on the hunger strike” — is becoming a major challenge for the Mahayuti government led by Fadnavis. Jarange demands that all Marathas be issued Kunbi certificates under the OBC category.

After the Maratha community took to the streets under Jarange’s leadership, the OBC community also began demonstrations, fearing the division of their quota. There’s a perception that OBCs are being supported by Fadnavis, fueling tensions. Jarange and other agitators are now targeting him, while Fadnavis insists that his cabinet’s subcommittee is working on a constitutional solution.

Jarange has led this movement for years and calls this his “last battle,” vowing not to step back until Marathas are included under the OBC quota. Aggressive remarks by leaders like Adv. Gunaratna Sadavarte, Prof. Lakshman Hake, and Gopichand Padalkar have further inflamed sentiments, complicating the situation. The government’s image is at stake as such rhetoric escalates conflicts.

Jarange’s demand for all Marathas to be issued OBC certificates cannot be ignored — nearly 5.4 million people have already received Kunbi certificates due to his movement. The committee led by Justice Sandeep Shinde reviewed historical records, including the Hyderabad Gazette, and verified community ties like intermarriage to support these claims.

Currently, OBCs constitute 52% of the population with a 27% quota. If 30–35% of Marathas are added, it could leave 85% of the population fighting for the same quota, intensifying opposition. This has led to a growing divide between the Maratha and OBC communities.

Interestingly, the Muslim community has also demanded reservation for Marathas, recalling recommendations like the Rane Committee’s proposal for a 5% quota, which was never implemented. Similarly, Fadnavis had promised inclusion of the Dhangar community among tribals but failed to deliver even after two terms.

With various communities unsettled, the government faces a daunting challenge in navigating social and political complexities. The Maratha community, making up nearly 33% of Maharashtra’s population and facing socio-economic disadvantages, seeks fair representation in jobs and education.

The movement under Jarange has presented multiple hurdles for the government. Besides anger stemming from past incidents like the Kopardi rape-murder case, opposition from the OBC community and support from rival parties like Congress, NCP (Sharad Pawar), and Shiv Sena (Uddhav Thackeray) is putting additional pressure on the ruling alliance.

The Maharashtra government’s handling of the Maratha reservation demand could shape its political future, as resolving this sensitive issue requires careful negotiation and consensus-building.

Pune, City Correspondent

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi recently launched a scathing attack on the Election Commission of India (ECI), alleging large-scale voter fraud. Responding to these allegations, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said that in recent times, Rahul Gandhi seems to have contacted scriptwriters Salim-Javed to write his speeches. “This script is highly entertaining and is being recited everywhere, but beyond the entertainment, there is nothing substantial in it,” Fadnavis commented. “All his claims are purely fictional,” he added.

Fadnavis was speaking at the Yashwantrao Chavan Academy of Development Administration (YASHADA) in Pune, where he was present as the chief guest for various programs. Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar also attended the event. During the interaction, CM Fadnavis was asked about Rahul Gandhi’s remarks.

The Chief Minister further said, “Rahul Gandhi is now claiming issues in the voter list, but we have been pointing this out for years. He doesn’t understand what a comprehensive revision of the voter list means. He is merely trying to find excuses for his electoral losses.”

Commenting on the recent INDIA alliance meeting, where Uddhav Thackeray, Aaditya Thackeray, and Sanjay Raut were seen seated in the last row, Fadnavis took a dig at the opposition. He said, “With us, they were always in the front row sometimes even ahead of us. This shows the kind of respect they enjoy now. They used to proudly proclaim that they would never bow before Delhi or lay down the red carpet for Delhi, but it is truly painful to see their current condition despite not even being in power.”

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Rohini Khadse Criticized Devendra Fadnavis: Yesterday at Chaityabhoomi, a program was held on the occasion of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar's birth anniversary. On this occasion, speeches were made by Governor C. P. Radhakrishnan and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. However, it came to light that the speeches of Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar were omitted from this program. It was seen. Officials informed that these speeches were omitted the previous night. On this, Rohini Khadse, the women's state president of the Nationalist Congress Party Sharad Pawar Party, has attacked the Mahayuti government.

Rohini Khadse has made a post on the social media platform. He said that because Dada was getting tired, first the files in the ministry were sent from Dada to Bhai. Then he appointed his close officer (Maharashtra Politics) as the economic advisor to keep an eye on the finance department. Then to clip Bhai's wings, he discriminated between the posts of Nidhi Madhyamik and Guardian Minister.

Again, Dada was left out at Raigad and Bhai was given a chance to speak. However, Bhai went 2 steps further… When Mota Bhai came to Mumbai, he went alone and had a meeting for 15 minutes… Then he realized that Bhai was also taking things too far… Then to bring both of them to their place, he cut off Bhai - Dada's speech at Chaityabhoomi … Overall, what…. So how is the government running? Huge tug-of-war, huge tug-of-war… At each other's feet… Today or tomorrow, Khadse has also predicted that it will stumble.

Meanwhile, Rohini Khadse has shared the copy of the Governor's program issued by Raj Bhavan on social media. The mention of the speeches of both the Deputy Chief Ministers is clearly visible in this copy.

Rohini Khadse has said that Ajit Pawar and Eknath Shinde are being sidelined. For this, the speeches of both of them at Chaityabhoomi were cut short. Khadse has also said that the government is running with a lot of tug-of-war and tug-of-war. Khadse has made a scathing remark that the Mahayuti will stumble over each other.

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Baramati, Maharashtra - In a significant development, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar announced the establishment of a state-of-the-art veterinary college in Baramati, which will elevate the region's reputation and provide a boost to the agricultural sector.

The announcement was made during the inauguration of the 'Krishik 2025' international agricultural exhibition at the Agricultural Science Center Malegaon. The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Agriculture Minister Adv. Manikrao Kokate, Environment and Climate Change Minister Pankaja Munde, Senior MP Sharad Pawar, MP Supriya Sule, and others.

FOCUS ON AGRICULTURAL INNOVATION AND EXCELLENCE

The 'Krishik 2025' exhibition showcased the latest advancements in agriculture, including the use of artificial intelligence, precision farming, and other innovative technologies. The event aimed to promote innovation and excellence in agriculture, providing a platform for farmers, researchers, and industry experts to share knowledge and best practices.

DEPUTY CHIEF MINISTER PAWAR'S VISION FOR AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT

Deputy Chief Minister Pawar emphasized the importance of adopting new technologies to overcome challenges faced by farmers, such as drought and irregular rainfall. He highlighted the need for sustainable agricultural practices, ensuring the long-term viability of farming in Maharashtra.

AGRICULTURE MINISTER KOKATE'S FOCUS ON TRANSPARENT DELIVERY OF BENEFITS

Agriculture Minister Adv. Kokate stressed the need for transparent delivery of benefits to farmers through technology. He mentioned the development of the Agristock website, which considers farmers holistically, providing them with a range of services and information.

ENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATE CHANGE MINISTER MUNDE'S EMPHASIS ON QUALITY PRODUCTION

Environment and Climate Change Minister Pankaja Munde emphasized the importance of quality production in agriculture. She highlighted the need for sustainable agricultural practices, ensuring the long-term viability of farming in Maharashtra.

SENIOR MP SHARAD PAWAR'S VISION FOR AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT

Senior MP Sharad Pawar emphasized the importance of innovation and excellence in agriculture. He highlighted the need for adopting new technologies, ensuring the long-term viability of farming in Maharashtra.

The establishment of the state-of-the-art veterinary college in Baramati is expected to provide a significant boost to the agricultural sector in Maharashtra, promoting innovation and excellence in farming practices.

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Pune, Maharashtra 

In a bid to tackle the alarming rise in crimes against women and girls, Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar today launched the "Shakti Abhiyan" initiative.

Speaking at a press conference, Pawar emphasized the need for urgent action to curb violence against women and girls. "The incidents happening in the state and in Baramati are unacceptable. We have discussed with senior police officers and decided to launch Shakti Abhiyan, focusing on women's dignity, parents' safety, and youth awareness."

Key Features of Shakti Abhiyan:

- Shaktibox: Confidential complaint boxes in schools, colleges, hostels, private companies, and government offices.
- One Call Problem Solve: 24/7 helpline for girls to report complaints.
- Power Cell: Dedicated rooms at police stations staffed by two women policemen.

Pawar appealed to citizens to support the initiative, stressing the importance of maintaining law and order in rapidly growing cities like Baramati.

With Shakti Abhiyan, the Maharashtra government aims to provide a safer environment for women and girls, ensuring prompt action against perpetrators.

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Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has said that it is a big responsibility to take charge of the NCP away from the shadow of his uncle and NCP founder Sharad Pawar after the split. In a conversation during his 'Jan Samman Yatra', Ajit Pawar said that preparations are underway for the Maharashtra Assembly elections and seat sharing talks between the ruling alliance partners NCP, Shiv Sena and BJP are progressing positively. It is worth noting that Ajit Pawar and some MLAs close to him broke ties with Sharad Pawar's party in July last year and joined the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance. Later the party was named NCP and Ajit Pawar also got the election symbol. The Sharad Pawar-led NCP SP is part of the opposition alliance Maha Vikas Aghadi. Apart from Sharad Pawar's NCP SP, the Maha Vikas Aghadi also includes Congress and Shiv Sena UBT.

Seat sharing talks underway

Speaking about seat sharing for the upcoming state elections, Pawar said he has spoken to Shiv Sena leader Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister and senior BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis two-three times and the talks are progressing in a positive manner. On the dates for elections in Maharashtra, Ajit Pawar said it is the Election Commission's job to decide. Ajit Pawar advocated an all-party meeting to discuss the Maratha community's demand for reservation in education and government jobs. Ajit Pawar said opposition parties cannot be ignored as they also represent the people.

Pawar said, 'Chief Minister Eknath Shinde had called an all-party meeting to discuss the reservation issue, but the opposition kept away from the meeting. I don't know if the boycott was intentional or not. He said time will be sought from them (the opposition) again.' Lauding the Mukhyamantri Ladki Behen Yojana, Pawar said the scheme will be launched on August 17 at a programme in Balewadi where beneficiaries will receive money for July and August. CM Shinde and Deputy CM Fadnavis will attend the programme.

What did Ajit Pawar say on reuniting with Sharad Pawar

On being asked about the mistake he referred to in connection with the fight between Supriya Sule and his wife Sunetra in the Baramati Lok Sabha elections was political or personal, he said, "There is nothing intentional in speaking about a mistake. I am the master of my mind. I speak my mind. I am a simple person." He refused to speak on the rift in the Pawar family (due to the NCP split). When asked about the possibility of reuniting with Sharad Pawar, the Deputy Chief Minister said, "I will just talk about my work and vision for Maharashtra. We will ask people to give us a chance again so that we can bring more money for the state." The opposition is always negative.

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