‘A defeat is blamed on … ‘: After Lok Sabha debacle, war of words between Maharashtra allies BJP, NCP over RSS leader’s comment | India News – Times of India

NEW DELHI: NDA allies BJP and the Ajit Pawar-led NCP engaged in a war of words over an article in Organiser which took a critical stance on the BJP’s decision to ally with the NCP in Maharashtra.
Organiser is a weekly publication known for its connection with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). The article slammed BJP’s move and called it “unnecessary politicking.” It said the induction of Ajit Pawar’s NCP into NDA had reduced the brand value of BJP.
“Maharashtra is a prime example of unnecessary politicking and avoidable manipulations. NCP faction led by Ajit Pawar joined BJP though BJP and split SS (Shiv Sena) had a comfortable majority. Sharad Pawar would have faded away in two-three years as NCP would have lost energy with infighting between cousins,” RSS lifelong member Ratan Sharda said in the article.
“Why was this ill-advised step taken? BJP supporters were hurt because they had fought against this Congress ideology for years and were persecuted. In a single stroke, BJP reduced its brand value. After years of struggle to become numero uno in Maharashtra, it became just another political party without any difference,” he added.
NCP leader and state minister Chhagan Bhujbal, acknowledging the article’s stance, said, “To some extent, it may be true. Some have also criticised the BJP for including leaders from the Congress, such as former chief minister Ashok Chavan. Even former Congress leader Milind Deora was inducted by CM Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena and made an RS member,” Bhujbal said.
Further questioning the BJP’s performance in other regions, he said: “But who will talk about the result in Uttar Pradesh, where the BJP’s seats decreased? What about other states where they lost some seats?”
Meanwhile, NCP leader and Rajya Sabha MP Praful Patel downplayed the Organiser’s article. “An article in a weekly does not reflect the BJP’s stance. It should not be interpreted in that manner,” Patel remarked.
Taking a stronger stance, NCP youth wing leader Sooraj Chavan expressed his dissatisfaction and lashed out saying that when the BJP performs well, credit is given to the hard work of the RSS but a defeat is blamed on Ajit Pawar.
Defending the RSS and advising restraint, BJP MLC Pravin Darekar said, “The RSS is like a father figure to all of us. There is no need to make comments about the RSS. Sooraj Chavan should not have rushed to comment on the organisation. The BJP has not commented against the NCP. It would be better if such issues are discussed during NDA meetings,”
(With agency inputs)