Sanjay Raut Slams Sharad Pawar for Felicitating Eknath Shinde

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut has strongly criticized NCP-SP chief Sharad Pawar for attending a function where Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde was honored with the prestigious Mahadji Shinde Rashtra Gaurav award.

Raut, known for his close ties with Pawar, expressed disappointment over the veteran leader felicitating Shinde, whom he accused of betraying Shiv Sena by orchestrating a split in the party.

Raut’s Criticism of Pawar’s Presence

Speaking on the issue, Raut stated:

"Maharashtra politics is heading in a strange direction. Eknath Shinde brought down the Maharashtra government through dishonesty. Our position was that Sharad Pawar should not have attended Shinde’s event."

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He further alleged:

"It is not right to give awards to traitors. Sharad Pawar, you are a senior leader, and we respect you. But you are honoring a person responsible for breaking Balasaheb Thackeray’s Shiv Sena at the behest of Amit Shah."

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Raut also claimed that Pawar not only felicitated Shinde but also praised Union Home Minister Amit Shah, adding that such gestures were avoidable in politics.

Pawar’s Praise for Eknath Shinde

During the event, Sharad Pawar lauded Eknath Shinde’s leadership, highlighting his contribution to tackling the challenges of urbanization and maintaining political dialogue across party lines. He stated:

"Eknath Shinde is among the few present-day leaders who understand the complexities of urban development and governance."

In his acceptance speech, Shinde referred to the award as an acknowledgment of his work for the common man and reiterated his commitment to public welfare.

NCP-SP’s Amol Kolhe Counters Raut

NCP-SP MP Amol Kolhe defended Sharad Pawar, stating that the senior leader displayed true statesmanship by attending the function and recognizing contributions across political lines.

Political Implications

Raut’s remarks highlight the ongoing tensions within Maharashtra’s opposition alliance, particularly between Shiv Sena (UBT) and NCP-SP. With Pawar extending an olive branch to Shinde, the political dynamics in the state could see further shifts in the coming months.