Sunetra Pawar warns leaders against ‘unnecessary interference’, hints at tough decisions

Mumbai: In a stern and clear message to party leaders, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) National President Sunetra Pawar on Thursday warned that while she has been accommodating so far, any “unnecessary interference” in party affairs going forward will not be tolerated.

Speaking at the NCP’s 27th Foundation Day event, Sunetra Pawar outlined the party’s future roadmap, emphasising that discipline and party interest will remain paramount.

Addressing ministers, MLAs, MPs and hundreds of party office-bearers, she also assured loyal ground workers that their dedication would be rewarded with fair opportunities at the right time.

In a speech that set a decisive tone for the party’s upcoming political strategy, Sunetra Pawar invoked the legacy of the late leader Ajit Pawar. She stated that the party would continue to operate in accordance with its principles and ideals.

“When I took up the responsibility of the National President four months ago under challenging circumstances, I was fully aware of what lay ahead. I have given the party topmost priority,” she said.

She added: “Ajit Dada accommodated everyone throughout his life, fulfilled wishes, showed affection and distributed positions and honours. I, too, have tried to understand and support everyone so far. However, moving forward, the party’s interest will be the supreme priority. If there is any unnecessary interference, it will definitely be dealt with. Just as Dada used to take tough, bitter decisions in the party's interest, I will do the same. It might be against my natural disposition, but to ensure justice, I will step into Dada’s shoes.”

Reassuring the grassroots cadre, Sunetra Pawar announced that appointments to various state corporations and boards would be cleared soon. She clarified that the selections would be strictly merit-based, prioritising loyalty and performance over mere seniority.

“Rather than focusing on how many years someone has been in the party, we will evaluate how much they have contributed to taking the party forward,” she clarified. She acknowledged that certain compromises have to be made to honour leaders joining from outside during party expansion. However, she firmly assured that “the respect and rights of loyal, long-time party workers will not be compromised.”

She urged workers to immediately begin strengthening the party organisation at the village, ward and booth levels, promising a blend of senior experience and youth energy.

Taking a tough stance on internal discipline, the NCP chief warned leaders to protect the party’s image.

“Any defamation of the party damages all of us, including me. Everyone must take precautions to ensure that I am not forced to take strict disciplinary action,” she warned.

Sunetra Pawar’s direct and uncompromising tone has triggered intense speculation in political circles regarding whom her warnings of “unnecessary interference” were directed at, signalling a major shift in her leadership style as she takes complete control of the party’s reins.