Supriya Sule Condemns Ajit Pawar's Insensitive Remarks About RR Patil and Clarifies on Scam Inquiry

Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar's recent comments about the late RR Patil have stirred controversy. Nationalist Congress Party leader Supriya Sule criticised these remarks as "insensitive" and apologised to Patil's family. Sule expressed her disappointment, stating that such statements are unsettling and reflect poorly on political discourse.

Ajit Pawar, during a rally for NCP candidate Sanjay Kaka Patil, alleged that RR Patil had initiated an inquiry against him in a multi-crore irrigation scam. He claimed BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis showed him a file with Patil's order after becoming chief minister in 2014. This revelation has sparked a political debate.

Allegations and Political Reactions

Supriya Sule, the Baramati MP, questioned Fadnavis about the status of the Rs 70,000 crore irrigation scam allegations he had previously made. She emphasised that it was Fadnavis who initially accused Ajit Pawar of irregularities in the irrigation project and demanded an inquiry.

Sule also highlighted that RR Patil, known as Aaba, supported a transparent investigation for the state's benefit. She suggested that Patil believed Ajit Pawar was not involved in any wrongdoing and wanted to ensure his innocence was proven through a fair inquiry.

Congress Leader Chavan's Clarification

Former Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan addressed claims about his involvement in ordering an inquiry into the alleged irrigation scam. Speaking to reporters in Satara, Chavan denied ever initiating such an investigation or using the term "scam" regarding irrigation projects.

Chavan explained that he only requested a white paper on irrigation projects for informational purposes. He clarified that discussions in the assembly led to calls for an inquiry into Vidarbha Vikas Mandal, which was linked to the alleged scam.

Political Implications and Questions Raised

The former CM stated that he never saw or signed any file related to the inquiry, although RR Patil approved it. Chavan mentioned that his government faced consequences due to these allegations, despite not being directly involved.

Sule raised concerns about Fadnavis showing Ajit Pawar the file while he was in opposition. She questioned how such confidential information could be shared with someone not holding a ministerial position at that time.

Chavan also noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had mentioned the Rs 70,000 crore irrigation scam during a rally in Bhopal. This statement added another layer to the ongoing political discourse surrounding the issue.

The unfolding events have intensified political tensions in Maharashtra. As leaders exchange accusations and clarifications, the focus remains on uncovering the truth behind these allegations and their impact on state politics.