War of words between Rohit Pawar and Ram Shinde

Ahmednagar: Ruling party leaders and opposition leaders are engaged in allegations and counter-allegations over various issues ahead of the State Assembly elections. A war of words ensued between NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar and BJP MLA Ram Shinde in the Karjat-Jamkhed Assembly constituency.

Rohit Pawar criticised Ram Shinde without naming him. Pawar said, “My opponent has appointed a consultant by paying Rs 20 lakh and has started copying me.”

Shinde replied, “Instead of commenting on my dressing style, you should tell what you have done in your constituency in the past five years.”

These allegations and counter-allegations by the two leaders have become a talking point in political circles. Later, Rohit Pawar said, “Why does one become fair after settling in Mumbai? I do not know this. Now, this is too much. I am young but someone has appointed a consultant by paying Rs 20 lakh.

“The consultant has been briefed that the person wants to ape me. Strands of my hair have turned grey during my social and public life. But I do not dye them. However, the consultant told my opponent that he would have to look young. He would have to dye their hair. They did it. He was later advised to dress like a youth. Then he started wearing such clothes.

“I held a function on the occasion of Rakhi Purnima. He also organised one. I do not understand if they are following me or imitating me. Why has he appointed a consultant?”

Reacting to the criticism, Ram Shinde said, “I think the opposition has understood all issues in the Assembly segment. Therefore, he is commenting on my clothes. I am a villager. You must understand why the opposition is speaking about my dressing style. He does not have any other serious issues to speak on. He should explain what he has done in the constituency during the past five years.”