Mumbai, Jan 6 (NationPress) Maharashtra's Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis declared on Tuesday that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will staunchly reject any dissent against the legacy of Hindutva icon Veer Savarkar. He dismissed rumors suggesting that Deputy Chief Minister and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) President Ajit Pawar is at odds with Savarkar's philosophy.

In addressing the ongoing discussion regarding Savarkar's legacy, CM Fadnavis emphasized his belief that Ajit Pawar does not oppose Savarkar's views and reiterated that the BJP's stance on the matter is unwavering.

As the Municipal Corporation elections approach, CM Fadnavis spoke on the rising tensions among coalition partners.

"I have no reason to think that Ajit Pawar is against Veer Savarkar's ideas. I have not witnessed him disputing them previously," he stated.

Nonetheless, he made it clear that the alliance's position is resolute, adding, "We will not entertain any opposition to Veer Savarkar."

The issue escalated after Maharashtra Minister and senior BJP figure Ashish Shelar issued a stern warning to the NCP leadership.

Highlighting the party's core beliefs, Shelar remarked, "Our party is guided by the principles of Swatantrya Veer Savarkar. We are devoted followers of Savarkar. Thus, Ajit Pawar’s party should also align with these views. If you are with us, we move forward together; if not, we will proceed without you. If you oppose us, we will confront you."

The clash originated during a press conference in Pune, where Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar allegedly criticized certain BJP policies and local leadership.

Pawar targeted the BJP over credit-sharing for development initiatives in Pune, leading to sharp criticisms from BJP leader Ravindra Chavan and CM Fadnavis.

What began as a local governance issue has evolved into a matter of ideological identity, with Shelar emphasizing the Savarkar issue, thereby questioning the NCP's alignment with the BJP’s Hindutva ideology.

This public disagreement comes at a pivotal moment as parties prepare for the 2026 Municipal Corporation elections, including the Jalgaon Municipal Corporation.

While CM Fadnavis sought to downplay any personal rift with Deputy CM Pawar, the insistence on ideological conformity indicates a growing divide within the ruling Mahayuti coalition.

Currently, Deputy CM Ajit Pawar has taken a cautious approach, urging the media to concentrate on development issues rather than internal coalition matters. However, the "Savarkar Test" presented by the BJP remains a critical point of contention for the Mahayuti.

When asked about the escalating conflict and the BJP's warnings, Deputy CM Ajit Pawar opted for caution, redirecting the discussion towards development and upcoming local elections.

"Inquire about development. Questions are framed merely to spotlight rifts within the Mahayuti. Please limit your inquiries to the Municipal Corporation elections. I will address all other matters post-elections," he stated, avoiding direct confrontation.