Mumbai, February 23 (NationPress) - Former Chief Minister of Maharashtra and Shiv Sena-UBT leader Uddhav Thackeray expressed his astonishment on Monday regarding the unexpected alliance between himself and the late former Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, given their parties' historical political rivalry.

Praising Ajit Pawar for his exceptional administrative skills, Thackeray acknowledged that Pawar had been a crucial support during the tenure of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government.

While addressing the condolence motion in the Maharashtra Legislative Council, Thackeray stated, "I never anticipated that Ajit Pawar and I would unite, considering our parties' political differences. We experienced two momentous mornings: one where Ajit Pawar’s unexpected decision stunned everyone, and another that cast a shadow of mourning over all of Maharashtra."

"Our collaboration was unforeseen. I initially had reservations, as I lacked administrative experience upon becoming Chief Minister. I was surprised when it was announced that Ajit Pawar would assume the role of Deputy Chief Minister. However, as we began our work, I realized I had found a remarkable, generous colleague and friend in Ajit Dada. He was my steadfast ally in governance and administrative matters. Whenever I faced a challenge, I turned to him. He had a knack for thoroughly understanding every topic," Thackeray elaborated.

Thackeray further commented, "Ajit Dada held the position of Deputy Chief Minister six times. What impresses me most is how he emerged from the shadow of a significant figure to establish his own identity. While some remain in the shadows throughout their lives, Ajit Dada was a trailblazer."

"I visited Baramati two or three times, and during those visits, I was dealing with health challenges, yet Ajit Dada made it a priority to accompany me. Witnessing the transformation of Baramati—the roads, the large institutions, the schools, and the overall progress—was genuinely astonishing. When the tragedy struck and Ajit Pawar passed away, I felt Baramati had become bereft. The once vibrant Baramati now felt abandoned," Thackeray remarked.

During the lockdown, when the state Secretariat (Mantralaya) was closed and it appeared that the economic cycle might collapse, "Ajit Dada kept Maharashtra’s economy thriving and ensured that no initiatives were halted. He showcased the expertise necessary to manage an administration," Thackeray stated.

"Ajit Dada will always be remembered. Recently, he mentioned that he was in power with those who had accused him of a Rs 70,000 crore scam. Why do I bring this up? Because we must contemplate how much we vilify a person while they are alive. How many allegations should one endure? Should we attempt to destroy their existence? There must be a limit. He faced numerous accusations but confronted them all; he never faltered," Thackeray commented.

Thackeray noted that everyone had experienced Ajit Pawar's operational style, and even officials respected him.

"He had a commanding presence and spoke with conviction. We also witnessed how his frankness occasionally led to difficulties, but that was due to his lack of malice," he added.

"Ajit Dada managed Maharashtra’s Finance Department. Despite my inexperience, he stood by me. He had an unbreakable connection with time—perhaps that is why the 'Clock' was his emblem. If Ajit Pawar was scheduled to arrive at a certain hour, he was punctual. Even his desk was always meticulously organized. A disciplined individual ensures that the entire administration functions with discipline," Thackeray stated.

"Maharashtra has suffered the loss of a dynamic leader, marking a significant loss for the state. The weight of grief from Ajit Pawar’s demise has fallen not just upon the Pawar family, but upon all of Maharashtra," Thackeray concluded.