Pune: Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has reportedly withheld funds from the District Planning Committee (DPC) for some MLAs of his own faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP).

The move comes amid rumors that these MLAs may be in contact with the Sharad Pawar faction of the NCP, raising concerns about potential party switching.

The decision is seen as a preventive measure to avoid giving these MLAs a political advantage if they switch allegiances after securing project approvals. This has led to unease among NCP MLAs who are uncertain about their political future.

The DPC, responsible for funding development projects proposed by MLAs in their constituencies, had approved projects worth ₹1,256 crores. However, the allocation of funds has been delayed due to speculations about some NCP MLAs joining the Sharad Pawar faction.

As the Assembly elections approach, Pune district received the highest DPC allocation under the stewardship of Guardian Minister Pawar. Yet, the delay in fund distribution has sparked unrest not only among NCP MLAs but also among those from allied parties in the Mahayuti.

The formula for fund distribution among BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP within the Mahayuti is yet to be finalized, further contributing to the delay.

Congress MLA Ravindra Dhangekar criticized the diversion of funds to election-focused schemes, calling for the release of MLA funds to benefit ordinary citizens.

Dhangekar commented that schemes like Ladki Bahini, Yuva Karya Prashikshan, and Tirth Darshan have been introduced only for election purposes, and MLA funds are being cut for these schemes.

This is affecting both opposition and ruling party MLAs. Funds meant for the work of ordinary citizens should not be withheld.