Sharad Pawar Criticizes Neelam Gorhe's Comments on Mercedes and Party Positions

Mumbai, Feb 24 (NationPress) NCP-SP leader Sharad Pawar expressed his disapproval of comments made by Neelam Gorhe, a prominent figure in the Shiv Sena and the deputy chairperson of the Maharashtra Legislative Council. Gorhe's remarks during the 98th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan in Delhi suggested that 'two Mercedes will secure you a position in the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena.'

Pawar criticized her statement as “foolish,” stating: “There was no need for what Neelam Gorhe said at the Sahitya Sammelan. Everyone in Maharashtra knows how she was nominated to the party.”

He continued: “It was inappropriate for her to make such comments during the event. Having been part of four different parties in a short span, she should refrain from making such remarks about her experiences. Sanjay Raut’s perspective on this matter is correct. The event organizers have also shown their discontent.”

Pawar added that officials from the Sahitya Sammelan have already issued an apology. “Let us end this discussion. If Sanjay Raut wishes to attribute responsibility to me, I hold no grievances as I led the reception committee. I have no issues with Sanjay Raut. Neelam Gorhe's comment was indeed foolish, and I will not elaborate further,” he remarked.

Pawar responded to the ongoing controversy following comments from Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut, who urged him to clarify his position as the head of the reception committee. Raut questioned whether Gorhe's political remarks were appropriate for such a literary platform.

Previously, Sushama Andhare, the deputy leader of the Uddhav Thackeray faction, announced plans for a defamation lawsuit against Gorhe for allegedly damaging the reputation of the party and its leader, Uddhav Thackeray. This legal action was triggered by Gorhe's assertion that 'without offering two Mercedes, no one received any position in the Uddhav Thackeray-led Sena. This is a fact.'

Gorhe, who has shifted allegiance to Eknath Shinde’s faction of the Shiv Sena, remarked: “When Balasaheb Thackeray was alive, he kept a close watch. After his passing, the Sena began to decline. When Uddhav Thackeray assumed the role of Chief Minister, we were all elated, believing it was a victory for Balasaheb Thackeray’s son. However, soon after, issues began to arise… even MLAs were denied meetings.”

Her comments sparked outrage from the Thackeray faction, which retorted that the party does not recognize traitors. They challenged Gorhe, who has been nominated for four consecutive terms and served twice as the deputy chairperson, to provide evidence of the eight Mercedes she allegedly donated to Thackeray.

Andhare stated: “The Shiv Sena is known for its dedication to the underprivileged and the most marginalised communities. Gorhe's absurd statements appeared to be an attempt to deliberately tarnish the party's image and that of the party chief. The Shiv Sena, founded by Balasaheb Thackeray, has a grand and noble tradition. If Gorhe seeks to satisfy the ruling Shiv Sena and the MahaYuti for a Rajya Sabha or ministerial role, that is her choice. However, she should not attempt to stain the party and its leader in the process.”

Andhare further criticized Gorhe, calling her “incompetent,” noting that despite serving four terms, she has failed to establish a single party branch in her locality and has resorted to mudslinging.

Gorhe has not publicly addressed the escalating controversy.

In contrast, Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut labeled Gorhe as “shameless,” alleging that as deputy chairperson, she accepts payments from proposers to include items in the house agenda. “I am prepared to face a privilege motion as I possess evidence,” he asserted.

Minister Sanjay Shirsat defended Gorhe, warning the Thackeray faction that he would reveal how nominations were allegedly secured through monetary exchanges.