Sharad Pawar admits three-decade-old mistake

Ch. Sambhajinagar: Senior politician Sharad Pawar, while underlining the importance of a dialogue, admitted his mistake three decades ago over the renaming of the Marathwada University when he was the Chief Minister.

Pawar held a press meet in the city and commented on the Maratha quota and the prevailing atmosphere of distrust in society over the issue.

He advised the government to hold a dialogue with the people. Pawar admitted that he made the same mistake three decades ago over the renaming of the Marathwada University. He said, “The Marathwada University was renamed after I discussed the issue with the state legislators. This had an adverse impact in Marathwada. Some poor people suffered. I realised the mistake that I merely issued an order about the renaming from Mumbai.

“A section of people were opposing the decision. I did not speak to them. Then I cancelled all my programmes and headed straight away to Marathwada. I spoke to students in all colleges there. I had positive discussions with them. Almost after a year, the opponents consented to our decision. A similar situation is prevailing in Marathwada today. The young generation should be taken into confidence. We will definitely hold a dialogue with them.

“Maratha quota leader Manoj Jarange is also in favour of quotas for the Muslims, the Lingayats and the Dhangars. This will narrow the divide between these communities. It is good that the chief minister and his representatives are communicating with Jarange Patil. However, doubts are being raised about some ministers’ meetings with the opponents of Maratha quota. The State Government should deal with all transparently. CM Eknath Shinde holds a discussion with Jarange while he sends Bhujbal to the OBCs leaders. Some people are not taken into confidence. This leads to an atmosphere of distrust.

“The State Government should call together the leaders of OBCs and the Marathas. We will also help the government in discussions, if needed. A collective effort will create social harmony.”

Earlier, he said that the state leadership should take the initiative to solve the issue in the State. It was of no use to take it to Delhi. His party favoured discussions. There couldn’t be two opinions about reservations. “I am worried about a widening divide between the two communities. Care should be taken in two-three districts of Marathwada. Members of a community do not visit the restaurant run by a member of another community. If true, it is worrisome. This should be changed. We will try to bring the communities together after the Parliament session gets over,” said Pawar.