Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has called out Opposition leaders for focusing on what he deems non-issues, like the India-Pakistan cricket match, instead of pressing matters such as crop losses due to heavy rains or worsening traffic congestion. His comments come in response to Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut’s criticism of the Union government’s decision to allow the Indian cricket team to play against Pakistan in the Asia Cup, especially in the wake of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam.
Pawar addressed the issue during a statement on Saturday. He noted that while some people believe India should sever all ties with Pakistan due to its involvement in terrorist activities, others are enthusiastic about watching such matches. However, he emphasized that the Opposition should prioritize more critical issues affecting the public.
“Today, there are pressing concerns like heavy rainfall, crop damage, and traffic congestion. Yet, Opposition members choose to talk about non-issues like the India-Pakistan match,” Pawar said. He urged political leaders to shift their focus to problems that directly impact citizens rather than engaging in what he views as trivial debates.
The Deputy CM also dismissed allegations of vote theft made by the Opposition, calling them baseless. He pointed out that some individuals had initially shared misleading data with the Opposition but later admitted their mistake. “The Opposition is trying to create a false narrative, but it won’t succeed,” Pawar asserted.
His remarks highlight a growing frustration with political discourse that strays from immediate socio-economic challenges. By calling for a shift in priorities, Pawar is pushing for more substantive discussions on issues like agriculture distress and infrastructure woes.
As the Asia Cup match approaches, the debate over whether sports should transcend political tensions continues. But for Pawar, the real game being played is how effectively leaders address the problems facing ordinary people.