The top brass of the NCP wants to remain with the Congress, both in Maharashtra and at the Centre, despite deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar’s resignation from the state Cabinet in protest against the campaign maligning his image.
The All-India Congress Committee on Wednesday distanced itself from the crisis developing in Maharashtra, saying state Congress leaders and the AICC in-charge of Maharashtra were handling the matter. Union minister and AICC general secretary Ghulam Nabi Azad praised NCP supremo Sharad Pawar, saying Mr Pawar was UPA-2 biggest “supporter” and “well-wisher”.
Mr Azad said in Srinagar on Wednesday: “There are no differences with Sharad Pawar. He is the biggest supporter and well-wisher of UPA.” There was no threat to the state government, he said, pointing out Ajit Pawar had resigned over scam allegations, not over any differences.
“Ajit Pawar has not resigned because (of) differences... but because (of) some allegations. He has said he will not accept any post till his name is cleared,” Mr Azad said.
Mr Sharad Pawar said in Kolkata: “We continue to support the governments in Maharashtra and Delhi. We do not want instability.”