New Delhi, Jan 12 (NationPress) Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) working president Supriya Sule has expressed grave concerns regarding the formation of political alliances in the local body elections of Maharashtra, alleging the misuse of financial power and accusing the Election Commission of being a mere bystander.

In an exclusive conversation with IANS, Supriya Sule, a Member of Parliament from Baramati, Maharashtra, addressed various topics including local elections, the functioning of the BJP, initiatives focused on women, the rising crime rates in Pune, coalition politics, the Shiv Sena (UBT)-MNS partnership, and Mamata Banerjee's protests against the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

Here is the complete interview:

IANS: You have raised concerns regarding 'opportunistic' electoral alliances in Maharashtra’s municipal elections and the role of the Election Commission. Could you elaborate on your concerns?

Supriya Sule: We always advocate for genuine issues, and we will persist in doing so. These municipal elections should focus on fundamental civic amenities—like sanitation, water supply, and ward-specific challenges. It is truly unfortunate and disheartening to witness these alliances forming without any action from the Election Commission. This negligence is detrimental to a robust democracy. The way alliances are being constructed and money allocated is troubling, yet the Election Commission remains inactive. This situation is quite regrettable.

IANS: You have also criticized the BJP’s ticket allocation and internal processes. What is your evaluation?

Supriya Sule: It is regrettable that dedicated BJP activists, who have toiled for years, are being overlooked for tickets. Presently, around 60% of BJP leaders have transitioned from the Congress and NCP and are now part of the decision-making framework. The BJP has lost its original identity. While the BJP claims to have increased its voter base, these votes are merely transfers from Congress and NCP leaders they have brought in. Should these leaders switch parties, the votes will likely follow them.

IANS: What is your take on the MahaYuti manifesto for local body elections, particularly regarding women-focused initiatives?

Supriya Sule: Women have consistently been vital voters and will continue to be essential stakeholders. The Ladli Bahin scheme promised Rs 2,100, but this amount is yet to be disbursed. We had pledged Rs 3,000 for every woman if we returned to power. I would genuinely welcome any authentic initiative aimed at women from this government. Every political party should prioritize women's welfare. Sharad Pawar was a pioneer in this country for advocating women’s reservations and encouraging their involvement in decision-making.

IANS: What do you believe are the actual needs of women at the grassroots level?

Supriya Sule: Essential requirements for women include access to clean water, quality education for their children, and adequate facilities. Moreover, financial support is crucial. They should also receive appropriate training and interest-free loans from banks to help establish their own enterprises. Comprehensive skill training should enable women not just to earn but to also achieve self-sufficiency and independence.

IANS: What is the current status of your alliance with the NCP for the local body elections?

Supriya Sule: Our coalition is established for the Pune municipal corporation elections. Future considerations will develop as we approach district council elections and other matters.

IANS: Minister Nitish Rane has criticized AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi. What is your perspective?

Supriya Sule: I haven’t come across that information. This election revolves around local issues such as infrastructure and water supply. Our objective is to serve the populace. In a democracy, everyone has the right to express their views, and they have exercised that right. However, our principal focus remains on development and progress.

IANS: You recently stated that the BJP was once a cultured party but has changed. Could you expand on that?

Supriya Sule: Every administration accomplishes some positive work. I would never claim that nothing has been achieved in past decades. Governance entails continuity—every government has its merits. However, the BJP has undergone a transformation, which I have observed firsthand. It was once a well-cultured and educated party. Currently, there is an alarming rise in hooliganism, which is unbecoming of the BJP. Where has the party's focus on merit gone? It seems to have lost importance.

IANS: You have expressed concerns about the escalating crime rate in Pune. Who do you believe is accountable?

Supriya Sule: Despite the increase in crime, the number of police stations in Pune has also surged. I have repeatedly urged the Chief Minister to intervene, as Maharashtra’s police force is both honest and capable. However, there seems to be a disconnect, resulting in rising crime rates. This data is not mine but from the Government of India, thus the accountability lies with the Maharashtra government.

IANS: There appears to be confusion regarding alliances in the local body elections. What is your perspective?

Supriya Sule: In municipal corporations, even when Congress and NCP were united, we contested separately for 18 years while in power together. Each election follows its own pattern. The INDIA alliance is for the national elections, while the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) is for state elections. In this instance, every party is participating independently. Notably, both the BJP and Congress are contesting together in certain areas, and the BJP has formed alliances with Owaisi's party as well.

IANS: What impact do you anticipate from the Shiv Sena (UBT)-MNS alliance?

Supriya Sule: The impact will undoubtedly be significant due to the profound love and bond these parties share with Mumbai. Their commitment to the Marathi language and Maharashtra’s history is substantial. They have a deep emotional connection and have greatly contributed to Mumbai’s development.

IANS: Regarding West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's protests against ED actions, what is your opinion?

Supriya Sule: It is deeply regrettable that in a thriving democracy, an attack occurred on I-PAC. Confidential documents related to 'Didi' were seized, which poses a severe threat to democracy. There was no justification for raiding I-PAC; they could have summoned them for questioning instead of intruding upon their office and confiscating sensitive materials. Such actions contradict the Constitution and are deeply troubling.