Daijiworld Media Network – Jintur

Jintur, Nov 24: Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Sunday strongly countered corruption allegations against him, declaring that in his 35-year political career, he has “never been ashamed of even a single rupee.” Addressing a campaign rally for the Jintur Municipal Council elections, Pawar reiterated that the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) is rooted in the principles of Shahu, Phule, and Ambedkar, and remains firmly committed to a secular ideology.

Pawar said the party has always honoured its commitments, citing the example of Rajesh Vitekar. “I had promised him that he would become an MLA, and we made it happen,” he stated. He added that the party gave Lok Sabha tickets to Rajesh Vitekar in Pathri and Mahadev Jankar in Parbhani, while the Jintur Municipal Council’s general-category chairperson post was allocated to Sabia Begum, wife of late Kapil Farooqui, as proof of the party’s secular principles.

The event was attended by MLA Rajesh Vitekar, former MLA Vijay Bhambale, former ZP vice-president Ajay Chaudhary, and NCP’s chairperson candidate Sabia Begum.

Pawar further asserted that the Mahayuti government will remain stable for the next four years. He assured residents that if their preferred candidates win the municipal polls, development funds would not fall short. Criticising several leaders for violating the Model Code of Conduct during the election period, he urged NCP workers and leaders not to indulge in any activities that would create social discord. “Maintain patience and act responsibly,” he advised.

‘Development Work Is Not for the Incompetent’

Taking aim at Guardian Minister Meghana Bordikar, Pawar said his visit across Jintur revealed garbage and plastic scattered across the city. “For four years, the city has been under an administrator. Visit Baramati or Pimpri–Chinchwad — you won’t find such neglect. Development work is not the job of the clueless,” he remarked sharply.

Pawar also criticised the district administration, saying officers must work strictly according to the Model Code of Conduct and ensure equal treatment for all. “One rule for one person and another for someone else is unacceptable,” he warned.

Ending his address, Pawar reiterated that the NCP is committed to transparent governance, secular values, and equal rights for every citizen.