Shaina : NC Criticises Mamata Banerjee’s Remarks on Ajit Pawar’s Death

Senior :Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC on Thursday strongly objected to comments made by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee regarding the death of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Nationalist Congress Party chief Ajit Pawar. She urged political leaders across parties to avoid drawing political narratives around a personal tragedy, calling for restraint and sensitivity at a moment of national shock.

Speaking to reporters after news of Ajit Pawar’s sudden demise emerged, Mamata Banerjee suggested that the circumstances surrounding his death warranted suspicion. She claimed Pawar had been considering exiting the NDA and was planning a return to the Opposition-led INDIA alliance, hinting at the possibility of a larger political conspiracy.

Objection to Political Speculation

Responding to Banerjee’s remarks, Shaina NC described the statements as inappropriate and lacking empathy. In an interview with IANS, she said that turning a tragic death into a political debate was deeply unfortunate and unnecessary.

She stressed that while political differences are inevitable, moments involving the loss of life demand dignity and compassion. According to her, framing the incident through a political lens only adds to public distress and distracts from the need for facts and clarity.

Call for Restraint and Sensitivity

Addressing Mamata Banerjee directly, Shaina NC appealed for responsible conduct from senior leaders. She said that suggesting conspiracies without evidence trivialises the gravity of the situation and disrespects the deceased.

She pointed out that Ajit Pawar had travelled to Baramati on official work and that a technical failure could not be ruled out at this stage. While an investigation is necessary to establish facts, she maintained that prematurely branding the incident as a conspiracy was unjustified. She added that if leaders were unable to offer condolences, it would be better to refrain from public speculation altogether.

Reference to Sharad Pawar’s Clarification

Shaina NC also cited the statement of NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar, who had already dismissed claims of foul play. According to her, Sharad Pawar had indicated that initial information pointed towards a technical malfunction rather than any deliberate act.

She said that clarity would emerge once investigations were completed and urged patience until verified details were made public. Using a somber tone, she reminded political actors that death is not a political tool but an irreversible reality that demands respect.

Remembering Ajit Pawar’s Political Journey

Reflecting on Ajit Pawar’s long public career, Shaina NC highlighted his decades of service to Maharashtra. She noted that Pawar dedicated nearly 50 years to politics, beginning his journey as a legislator from Baramati before going on to handle key portfolios such as Finance and Irrigation.

She recalled that he served as Deputy Chief Minister on six occasions and built a reputation as a decisive administrator. Pawar passed away at the age of 66 years, six months, and six days, leaving behind a legacy shaped by experience, authority, and grassroots engagement.

Impact on Maharashtra’s Political Landscape

Shaina NC said Pawar’s death had created a significant void in Maharashtra politics. She acknowledged his close working relationships with leaders such as Eknath Shinde and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, noting that his role was central to governance and coordination within the state leadership.

According to her, the absence of a seasoned leader like Ajit Pawar would be felt not only within his party but across the broader political spectrum, given his influence and administrative experience.

A Leader Known for Accessibility

Highlighting Pawar’s personal approach to public service, Shaina NC described him as a mass leader who remained accessible despite holding high office. She recalled that he regularly opened his office early in the morning, allowing citizens to bring forward their grievances directly.

She said this daily interaction reflected his commitment to resolving issues at the grassroots level and reinforced his image as a leader who listened patiently and acted decisively. For many, she added, this quality defined Ajit Pawar’s connection with the people more than any political title.