Pawar mentioned that the leaders of the INDIA bloc are expected to convene in Delhi on Wednesday to determine their future course of action. However, he also acknowledged that the opposition bloc is unlikely to form a government at the Centre.“I spoke to Mallikarjun Kharge and Sitaram Yechury. The INDIA alliance meeting is likely to be held in Delhi tomorrow. Final decision is expected to be taken by this evening. Accordingly, I will be in Delhi,” Pawar said.
When asked about the potential next prime minister, Pawar responded, “We have not given it a thought.” He further emphasized, “I am not sure if the INDIA alliance can form government. We will meet tomorrow and take a decision unanimously on the future course of action.”
Pawar also highlighted the impressive strike rate of his party and the Shiv Sena (UBT) in the Lok Sabha elections giving credit to the party workers. “This is success of my party workers, Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT),” he said.
Lok Sabha Elections
Assembly Elections
Addressing the speculation about his communication with other political leaders, Pawar clarified that contrary to media reports, he had not spoken to JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar or TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu, despite the trends suggesting that the BJP might not secure a majority on its own in the Lok Sabha polls.
Pawar, who began his political journey from Baramati in Pune district, attributed his party’s good lead in Baramati to the united efforts of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA). “We fought the elections by raising issues concerning people like unemployment and inflation. We are committed to continue highlighting the issues of people,” he stated. The former chief minister praised Maharashtra’s role in the changing political landscape and expressed pride in its people. He acknowledged the tough electoral battle and the strong support given by the people to the opposition.
Pawar also noted that the results in Uttar Pradesh had provided a new direction to the INDIA alliance, pointing out that even in the BJP’s winning constituencies, their victory margins were narrower compared to the previous election.
(With agency inputs)
