MUMBAI: The recently appointed working president of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) Praful Patel has raised concerns about the attention given to the controversial statements made by Sanjay Raut, a prominent Shiv Sena leader and Member of Parliament associated with Uddhav Thackeray’s faction.
These remarks by Patel have triggered discussions about the current state of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition. Known for his outspoken criticism of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and occasional jibes at political opponents, Sanjay Raut has now found himself facing criticism from within his own party and MVA allies.
During an interview with a regional media platform, Praful Patel indirectly addressed Raut’s activities when asked about a “particular individual known for these morning media bytes criticising the NCP and the Pawars.”
READ MORE: Sharad Pawar quits NCP chief post & active politics
Praful Patel responded to the journalist’s question, stating, “Now, what do I say about this? As news channels, you take it seriously and seek raw material for your morning coverage.”
“We have to take him seriously because he is an MP and a leader,” the journalist asserted.
In response, Patel remarked, “If you want, go ahead and take him seriously. However, if someone else from his party speaks, then we will react and respond accordingly. It is not wise to engage in daily discussions and reactions to his comments.”
“What kind of seriousness are you referring to? If there are specific instructions or matters of importance, we understand that. But continuously engaging in taunts, jibes, and repetitive criticism? Is that necessary?,” he questioned.
READ MORE: SC: Uddhav can’t be reinstated, Shinde to stay as CM; but “govt formation illegal”
Patel emphasized that daily reactions to Raut’s comments were unnecessary, suggesting that one should only respond when another member of Raut’s party offers a statement worth addressing. “When Uddhav Thackeray speaks on something, we can consider it. We don’t come in front of the TV repeatedly. We appear only when something of significance arises, in line with the party’s instructions. You should understand that. Why doesn’t the media approach me every day? I will not comment on everything. We responsibly speak when it is necessary. “Why don’t all of you go to Uddhav Thackeray every day? He will not speak daily. We will wisely choose when the time comes for all of us to speak!”” Patel highlighted.
Patel concluded by noting, “Such individuals exist not only in this particular party but in all political parties.”
The exchange concluded with the journalist suggesting Patel speak to Amol Mitkari, to which Patel agreed, stating that he would consider the suggestion and communicate the same message to Mitkari.
As Patel’s open and direct comments on Raut’s activities reverberate through political circles, questions have emerged about the unity of the MVA coalition.
You May Also Like:
