Ajit Pawar’s Controversial Advice: “Vet Deals, Even If Paying Fees”
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar sparked controversy after advising his son, Parth Pawar, to “vet deals properly, even if you have to pay fees for it” during a public event. The remark, made amid a land dispute in Pune, has drawn accusations of promoting corruption, while Pawar’s aides defend it as standard due diligence advice.
Why the Pawar Land Deal is Under Scrutiny
The comment comes as Parth Pawar faces allegations of acquiring a 7.5-acre plot in Pune’s Bhosari through questionable means. Critics claim the deal was undervalued and politically influenced—a charge the Pawar family denies. The land, originally owned by a farmer, was sold to a firm linked to Parth, raising ethical concerns.
Opposition Reacts: “Euphemism for Bribes?”
BJP leader Kirit Somaiya called the statement a “shocking admission of corruption,” tweeting:
“‘Pay fees’ means bribes in Maharashtra’s political lexicon. This is unacceptable from a deputy CM.”
Congress leader Sachin Sawant demanded an inquiry, stating:
“If leaders openly talk about ‘paying fees,’ what happens behind closed doors?”
Pawar’s Defense: Legal Fees, Not Bribes
Ajit Pawar later clarified that “fees” referred to legal and consultancy costs, not bribes:
“Due diligence is standard in business. The opposition is twisting my words.”
Public and Legal Fallout
- Social media erupted with memes mocking the remark, with users joking about “transparent corruption.”
- Activists allege powerful families exploit land deals, leaving farmers vulnerable.
- Legal experts doubt an inquiry will proceed without concrete evidence.
Will This Hurt the MVA Government?
The ruling Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition, already battling corruption allegations, risks further instability if the opposition escalates the issue.
Key Takeaways
- The “pay fees” remark fuels debates on ethics in Maharashtra politics.
- The Pune land deal remains under scrutiny, though no formal probe exists yet.
- Pawar’s clarification may not silence critics, keeping the controversy alive.
— NextMinuteNews
