In BJP, Leaders Retire At 75: Ajit Pawar's Dig At 83-Year-Old Sharad Pawar

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar launched a scathing attack on his uncle Sharad Pawar saying he is now too aged to continue as the NCP chief.

Ajit also questioned Sharad's intention in regard to first resigning from the post and then again changing his mind a few months ago.

"Why did you resign if you wanted to take it back? I also told my sister Supriya Sule to explain to him (Sharad) but he is too stubborn," Ajit Pawar said at a meeting with his supporters.

"I have always worked under the leadership of Sharad Pawar...He taught me everything...Sharad Pawar is our leader and mentor. But you portrayed me as a villain in front of everyone. I still have deep respect for him," he said.

"But you tell me, IAS officers retire at 60...even in politics, BJP leaders retire at 75. You can see the example of LK Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi...That allows the new generation to rise...You (Sharad Pawar) give us your blessings....The other day, he went to YB Chavan memorial...I have also been there...but you are 83, aren't you going to stop?..Give us your blessings and we will pray that you live a long life," he asked.

Ajit also expressed his desire to become the Maharashtra chief minister to "implement certain plans I have for people's welfare."

Ajit Pawar claimed the support of over 40 MLAs and MLCs, the other faction paraded 17 MLAs. The NCP has 53 MLAs in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly.