Mumbai, Jan 12 (NationPress) Amid ongoing rumors regarding Supriya Sule's potential switch from the Nationalist Congress Party–Sharad Pawar (NCP-SP) to the BJP, Ajit Pawar, the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra and a prominent NCP figure, refuted such assertions on Monday. He emphasized, 'I am not an astrologer' and expressed his preference for concentrating on developmental activities instead of speculative discussions.

The speculation intensified following Sule's commendation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for organizing all-party delegations internationally post Operation Sindoor.

In response to inquiries from the media, Pawar dismissed these interpretations as unnecessary and frequently overstated.

In an exclusive interview with IANS, Ajit Pawar stated, 'I am not an astrologer. Such speculative questions often escalate into breaking news for no reason. My focus is on development until January 15.'

When questioned about the possibility of unification between the two factions of the NCP, Pawar reiterated that their immediate priority is winning the upcoming elections.

'Currently, our primary goal is to secure victory in the elections. We are exerting every effort to ensure a favorable outcome, and that is where our commitment lies,' he articulated.

On the broader topic of the NCP and NCP-SP potentially reuniting, Pawar remarked, 'We are one family. In any family, members unite during joyful and challenging times. If family members choose to rally together, there is nothing wrong with that.'

Commenting on the alliance of the Thackeray brothers, Pawar acknowledged its potential electoral consequences.

'They are certainly working hard. Historically, Shiv Sena (UBT) and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) catered to distinct voter segments. Their unification might reduce vote division, which could be advantageous for them. That’s the reality,' he stated.

Regarding his involvement in the Thackeray brothers' reconciliation, Pawar indicated he had no direct role but welcomed the development.

'I would like to commend them. It is always beneficial when familial relationships improve,' he added.

On whether the Marathi electorate would consolidate behind the Thackerays following their reunion, Pawar noted that voter behavior fluctuates between elections.

'It doesn’t operate that way. Voters think differently based on the election context. During the Lok Sabha elections, the Opposition secured 31 out of 48 seats in Maharashtra. But just five months later, the scenario altered in the Assembly elections, where we won 238 seats and the Opposition dwindled to 85,' he elaborated.

'This clearly demonstrates that voters adopt diverse perspectives for national, state, and local elections,' he further clarified.

Addressing criticism regarding promises of free services, which some leaders, including BJP's Chandrakant Patil, have contested, Pawar delineated his authority's boundaries.

'Only the Chief Minister can make commitments for the entire state, while the Prime Minister does so for the country. I am speaking about local bodies, where I have dedicated 25 years of service. If we win, we will strive to fulfill our promises,' he affirmed.

Discussing local alliances, including the collaboration of NCP, Shiv Sena, and AIMIM in the Parli Municipal Corporation, Pawar stated that such arrangements are not uncommon.

'As I have stated before, such alliances are typical in local body elections across Maharashtra. Not every leader is privy to every decision, particularly when they are finalized at the local level,' he added.

Reacting to BJP leader K. Annamalai's assertion that Mumbai is not a part of Maharashtra, Pawar firmly rejected the statement.

'Mumbai is in India, and within India, it is in Maharashtra. Mumbai will always remain an integral part of Maharashtra. Such remarks are made near elections to garner attention, not to foster development,' he stated.

On whether NCP founder Sharad Pawar deserves the Bharat Ratna, Pawar remarked that the decision lies with the Central government.

'That decision is the prerogative of the Central government. Sharad Pawar has been in public service for over 60 years and has made numerous significant decisions. Anyone can voice an opinion on that,' he concluded.