Mumbai, February 23 (NationPress) Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed on Monday that Ajit Dada Pawar had the potential to be the finest Chief Minister Maharashtra never had, emphasizing that his passing has left a significant void in the political landscape.

In a heartfelt homage, the CM remarked that the true implications of the term "void" are now becoming evident.

During the condolence motion on the initial day of the state Budget Session in the Assembly, the chief minister conveyed that this absence is impossible to fill and that a leader like "Dada" (Ajit Pawar) is irreplaceable.

"Ajit Pawar was always the first to arrive at Vidhan Bhavan during Assembly sessions. Dada was a constant presence in his chair, regardless of how long the House convened. It is profoundly saddening that he is no longer with us. This year, he would have unveiled his 12th budget, and next year, in presenting his 13th, he could have matched Barrister Sheshrao Wankhede's record. Sadly, he departed before achieving that milestone," CM Fadnavis stated.

Taking on the responsibility of presenting the budget this time, CM Fadnavis added: "Ajit Dada was never one to shy away from making tough choices when it came to the budget. Even when the Finance Department proposed reconsidering the 'Ladki Bahin' scheme due to its financial implications, Ajit Pawar remained steadfast and ensured its launch."

"Following the launch of the Ladki Bahin scheme, Ajit Pawar donned a pink jacket, encouraging us to wear them as well. Now, these instances remain as cherished memories. While moving this motion is a constitutional obligation, it is also an emotional moment for me," he remarked.

Quoting a line from Mahakavi Bhas's play 'Svapnavasavadattam', CM Fadnavis mentioned that Ajit Pawar's passing is not merely a political loss but a source of deep personal sorrow. "They say time heals all wounds, but some pains linger, no matter how much time passes. This is one such pain. Often, we mention a 'void' after a leader's departure, but when someone like Ajit Dada leaves, you truly grasp the enormity of that term. There can never be another Ajit Dada," he emphasized.

CM Fadnavis recited the inspiring words: "Let work be life, and death be rest."

He characterized Dada as a unique leader who maximized and meticulously planned every moment of his time. "Both of us were born on July 22nd; he was 11 years my senior. In every sense, he was my 'Dada' (elder brother). We shared a strong friendship for over a decade. While we met in 1999, our emotional bond deepened after 2014. Even while referring to the NCP as a strategic partner, I always viewed Ajit Dada through an emotional lens," he noted.

CM Fadnavis addressed the contentious 2019 government formation, highlighting that Ajit Pawar was a leader who consistently honored his commitments.

"In 2019, we agreed to form the government, but his seniors altered their decision. Nevertheless, since he had promised me, he chose not to break his word. Many referred to it as the 'early morning ceremony,' which annoyed Dada because 'early morning' signifies 6 a.m., and we took the oath at 9 a.m. He had to face consequences for that. When the Supreme Court ruled against us, we were both at the 'Varsha' bungalow. I advised him then to make his own decision, as he had to consider the future of the people with him," he recounted.

CM Fadnavis concluded by commending Pawar's punctuality and political journey. "Dada was remarkably punctual, but this time, he missed his timing. Everyone witnessed him playing an extensive innings, yet he departed too soon.

He held the position of Deputy Chief Minister six times—the highest for anyone. He frequently stated, 'I will become CM someday, but for now, I’ll remain DCM.' He reiterated, "Ajit Dada Pawar could have been the finest Chief Minister that Maharashtra never had."