I owe no debt despite decades of allegations: Ajit Pawar on 'vote for funds' remark
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Nov 24 (PTI): Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Monday defended his controversial "vote for funds" remark, asserting that despite decades of allegations, he owes "no debt to anyone".
Addressing a public rally at Jintur in Parbhani district ahead of the December 2 local body polls, the NCP leader acknowledged the intense media scrutiny over his remarks, noting that any issue is quickly linked to him.
He stressed his respect for the Model Code of Conduct, and admitted that mistakes can occur in public work.
During campaigning on Friday for elections to the Malegaon Nagar Panchayat in Baramati tehsil of Pune district, Pawar said he will ensure there is no shortage of funds for the town if they elect his party's candidates, but if they reject them, he will also "reject".
ALSO READ: You have votes, I have funds; if you reject, I will also reject: Ajit Pawar tells electors
The Opposition had criticised Pawar and demanded an apology from him.
Addressing the controversy, the deputy CM on Monday said, "The media is watching me and monitoring my words about the funds. If anything happens, they now immediately remember Ajit Pawar."
"I fully understand that the Model Code of Conduct must not be breached. It is true that one who works may make errors. However, I want to remind you that I have faced numerous allegations over the past 35 years, but I know that I do not owe any debt to anybody," he added.
Ahead of the Jintur Municipal Council election, Pawar reaffirmed his commitment to the region's progress.
"I will stand with the people here when it comes to development, that is all I will say here. Alternate arrangements would be made for individuals impacted by development projects," he said.
ALSO READ: Ajit Pawar's 'vote for funds' warning: NCP (SP) seeks EC actions, public apology from Dy CM
Pawar also used the rally to appeal to the Election Commission (EC) for unbiased action, claiming that the law is not being applied equally to all parties. He raised concerns about what he termed "fake allegations" and specific activities by some non-government groups ahead of the local body elections.
"Some people from an organisation are visiting voters' homes and asking about their family members, work, and residences. Election Commission officials do not seem to notice that people from a private organisation are approaching citizens in this manner while the Model Code of Conduct is in effect. Law should be the same for everyone, and everyone should be treated equally," he said.
Citing various central and state government schemes, the deputy CM emphasised that these resources can be channelled for the region's progress, asserting "the schemes should not remain for name's sake".
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Hassan: Farmer killed in wild elephant attack
Hassan: A 65-year-old farmer was killed in a wild elephant attack in Belur taluk on Sunday morning.
The deceased has been identified as Raj shetty (65), a resident of Kanaguppe village.
According to police, the elephant, which was hiding in nearby bushes, suddenly attacked Raj shetty while he was on his way to work in his garden. The animal reportedly lifted him with its trunk and trampled him to death.
Forest department officials and police come to the spot upon receiving information and launched an operation to drive the elephant away.
The incident occurred within the limits of Arehalli police station.
