Mumbai, Feb 9 (NationPress) The Maharashtra NCP leader Sunil Tatkare announced on Monday that the party has witnessed a significant rise in the recent elections for 12 zilla parishads and 125 panchayat samitis, highlighting that this achievement is a heartfelt tribute from the populace to the late Ajit Pawar, former president and Deputy Chief Minister.

"This triumph is a heartfelt acknowledgment from the people towards the relentless work and dedication of our late leader, Ajitdada Pawar, who served as the Deputy Chief Minister of the state," expressed Tatkare with emotion.

The NCP celebrated success in the local body elections. Tatkare dedicated this win to the late Ajit Pawar’s unwavering commitment to the common people, reiterating a steadfast dedication to his legacy and public service.

In his remarks regarding the election outcomes, Tatkare noted that Ajitdada dedicated his life to uplifting the common man at the grassroots level.

“He tirelessly worked to ensure that the development reached every part of Maharashtra. Today’s outcome is not merely a victory but a grand affirmation of the public’s steadfast belief in Ajit Dada’s principles and determined leadership. 'We will advance Dada’s legacy with heightened responsibility,' asserted Tatkare.

He also remarked, “This victory amplifies our accountability. Our determination to serve the people with integrity while honoring the developmental legacy bestowed upon us by Ajitdada has intensified.”

This marked the first major local body election since Ajit Pawar's demise, making these results particularly noteworthy. Following the party's success in the Zilla Parishads and Panchayat Samitis, a wave of enthusiasm has spread among NCP supporters, with celebrations erupting in various locations.

In the meantime, state revenue minister and BJP in-charge of local body elections, Chandrashekhar Bawankule, remarked that a vote for Ajit Dada translates to a vote for Mahayuti, asserting that rural voters are aligned with the BJP-led coalition.

Bawankule claimed that BJP has emerged as the leading party in Maharashtra, attributing their success to the 'double-engine government' and underscoring that the rural demographic is firmly backing both the state and central administrations.

He commented, "I had previously indicated that the BJP would become the premier party in Maharashtra. Just like in Municipal Corporations, the BJP will have Presidents in nearly 8 Zilla Parishads. We have effectively communicated the 'double-engine' government’s initiatives to the people. Development in rural Maharashtra will now progress through these Zilla Parishads."

He noted that the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition has lost ground as voters now prioritize development over criticism.

Bawankule further claimed that the Congress's 'negative campaign' led to their public rejection and indicated that Sharad Pawar failed to provide effective direction to the MVA, resulting in their disappointing performance.