Deepak Mankar Stands Firm with Ajit Pawar Amidst Defections in Pune

Deepak Mankar, the President of NCP Pune, has denied rumors of leaders from Pune City defecting to Sharad Pawar’s faction. Despite the recent defection of 29 former corporators in Pimpri Chinchwad, Mankar asserts loyalty to Ajit Pawar, emphasizing that the party in Pune remains intact.

Mankar said, “The defection in Pimpri Chinchwad won’t have a significant impact on the state level.” He revealed that Ajit Gavhane had discussed his decision with him, citing his desire to contest against local BJP MLA Mahesh Landge due to a rift. Mankar expressed confidence that even if leaders leave, they won’t benefit from it.

When questioned about his own loyalty, Mankar emphatically stated that “the party in Pune City is intact, and no one is leaving.” He acknowledged having certain demands, such as a seat in the Maharashtra assembly council, but clarified that he wouldn’t leave the party even if those demands weren’t met.

Mankar said, “The party in Pune is very intact. No one is leaving the party. We will stay with Ajit Pawar till we die. He was with us in a difficult time. We have certain demands. I was expecting a seat for Pune in the Maharashtra Assembly Council, but that doesn’t mean that if this is not given, I would leave the party. I will stay with Ajit Pawar even if nothing is given to me.”

Mankar also emphasized that people have joined Ajit Pawar on a development agenda without expectations, making it unlikely for them to abandon him. He even hinted at leaders from other parties intending to join the NCP soon.