Pune: Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar came out in defense of Wadgaon Sheri MLA Sunil Tingre, amidst allegations made by Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) President Sharad Pawar. Ajit Pawar highlighted Tingre's contributions to the constituency, stating that efforts to tarnish his reputation without justification are unjustifiable.
The occasion marked the inauguration of Pune's first Oxygen Park and the ground-breaking ceremony for various development projects in the Wadgaon Sheri constituency.
The event saw the presence of notable figures, including Women and Child Welfare Minister Aditi Tatkare, State Women's Commission Chairperson Rupali Chakanakar, Municipal Commissioner Rajendra Bhosale, and City Engineer Prashant Waghmare.
Last week, during a public meeting in Wadgaon Sheri, Sharad Pawar had criticized MLA Tingre, stating that banners depicting him as a 'powerful MLA' were misleading.
He referred to an incident involving a Porsche car accident, accusing Tingre of pressuring the police to assist the accused. Sharad Pawar warned voters that they would hold Tingre accountable, branding him as an MLA who aids criminals.
In response, Ajit Pawar, without mentioning Sharad Pawar's name, enumerated the successful projects completed under Tingre's leadership.
He emphasized significant initiatives in the area, such as the GST Bhavan, a sprawling garden, and a grade separator at Vishrantwadi Chowk aimed at resolving traffic congestion.
Ajit Pawar remarked that despite the unfounded attacks on MLA Tingre's character, he is a dedicated public servant who works collaboratively with others for the community's benefit.
Ajit Pawar also reminded the audience that Sunil Tingre was elected for a five-year term, with one year spent in opposition and another year during the COVID-19 pandemic.
He underscored that during the remaining three years under the Mahayuti coalition government, considerable development work has taken place.
Ajit Pawar praised Tingre's dynamic approach as an MLA and expressed optimism that if the voters of Wadgaon Sheri grant him another chance in the next election, even more ambitious projects would be undertaken in the constituency.