By IANS,
Sangli (Maharashtra): Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar Sunday described himself a “a ruffian” in politics.
The outspoken nephew of union Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar, Ajit Pawar also justified his self-proclaimed identity by claiming that “nothing can be achieved in politics unless you are a ruffian (‘tagya’).”
“Politics is a tough game, nothing can be achieved in politics unless you are a toughie. I am a ruffian,” Pawar said adding that such people, who are removed from the villages, are contributing in the co-operative sector.
Ajit Pawar’s words of wisdom came in the presence of Home Minister R.R. Patil and Rural Development Minister Jayant Patil and other senior party leaders.
The occasion was a function to celeborate Tasgaon Urban Co-operative Bank’s “amrit mahotsav” in R.R. Patil’s home town in Sangli district.
This is the second time in recent weeks that Ajit Pawar has displayed his “tough” attitude.
A fortnight ago, he had launched a tirade against the media in the state, alleging that it was reporting untruths and half-truths. He suggested a gag on those indulging in such journalism and caning of such scribes.
The media demanded an apology and announced a state-wide ban on covering the events of Ajit Pawar.
While Ajit Pawar refused to apologise saying he had not said anything wrong, the matter was finally sorted out last week after his uncle Sharad Pawar expressed “regrets” over the incident.