Fadnavis Challenges Pawar's Claims on Industrial Projects, Labels Him as Owner of Fake Narrative Factory

Maharashtra's deputy Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, has criticised NCP SP chief Sharad Pawar, accusing him of spreading false narratives. Fadnavis refuted Pawar's claim that industrial projects are being diverted from Maharashtra to Gujarat. At a rally in Baramati, Pawar alleged that Ratan Tata wanted the FAL and Airbus project in Maharashtra, but it was moved to Gujarat at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's request.

Fadnavis expressed disappointment with Pawar's statements, labelling him as the "owner of a fake narrative factory." He argued that contrary to Pawar's claims, Maharashtra remains a hub for industrialisation. "Pune district is our manufacturing and IT hub," he stated, emphasising ongoing efforts to transform it into a technology centre.

Industrial Growth and Investment

The BJP leader highlighted Maharashtra's significant share of foreign direct investment (FDI) in India. According to reports from NITI Aayog and RBI, 52% of the country's FDI is directed towards Maharashtra. Fadnavis noted that during the BJP-led government from 2014 to 2019, Maharashtra led in investments. However, under the MVA government, Karnataka and Gujarat surpassed it.

Fadnavis assured that Maharashtra has regained its top position in investment for 2022-23 and 2023-24. He criticised Sharad Pawar and Uddhav Thackeray for allegedly promoting Gujarat's achievements over Maharashtra's. He also targeted NCPSP leader Supriya Sule, calling her a co-owner of the "fake narrative factory."

Relocation of Companies

Addressing claims about companies leaving Pune's Hinjawadi IT Park, Fadnavis clarified that while 16 companies relocated, they remained within Maharashtra. Thirteen of these firms moved during the MVA government's tenure to cities like Nagpur and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar. He questioned why infrastructure wasn't improved over the past 50 years when Pawar had political influence in Pune.

At another rally in Pune's Parvati area, Fadnavis accused the Opposition MVA alliance of intending to halt current government schemes like the Ladki Bahin Yojana. He defended the scheme against criticism, stating that Rs 2.5 crore had been deposited into women's accounts by November.

Political Criticism

Fadnavis claimed that some leaders from MVA opposed the Ladki Bahin Yojana by approaching the High Court. He urged women to recognise who truly supports them financially. "Their real brothers are depositing money into their accounts," he said, contrasting this with those he described as "step brothers" trying to end the scheme.

The ongoing political discourse highlights tensions between Maharashtra's ruling party and opposition figures over economic development narratives and social welfare initiatives. The debate underscores differing perspectives on state progress and governance priorities.