Shah accused Pawar of engaging in "politics of betrayal and treachery" since 1978, a practice he claimed was perpetuated by Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray in 2019. He stated, "Sharad Pawar started politics of 'daga-phatka' (betrayal and treachery) in Maharashtra in 1978, which was rejected by people in 2024 (elections). Similarly, the politics of the dynasty and the betrayal of Uddhav Thackeray was also rejected."
In the 2024 assembly elections, the BJP-led Mahayuti coalition, which includes factions of the NCP and Shiv Sena, secured 230 out of 288 seats in Maharashtra. The BJP itself won 132 seats, while the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) was reduced to 46 seats, with NCP (SP) and Shiv Sena (UBT) obtaining 10 and 20 seats, respectively.
Shah emphasized that the election results signified the end of political instability in Maharashtra, which he attributed to practices dating back to 1978. He referenced the historical context, noting that in 1978, Sharad Pawar, who later founded the NCP, left the Vasantdada Patil government with 40 MLAs to become Chief Minister.
The Home Minister also criticized Uddhav Thackeray for severing ties with the BJP over the Chief Minister's post after the 2019 assembly elections, suggesting that such actions were a continuation of betrayal politics. He remarked, "People showed Pawar and Uddhav Thackeray their place in the 2024 polls. They sent both home and made the real Shiv Sena and NCP victorious along with BJP."
Shah lauded BJP workers as the true architects of the party's substantial victory, urging them to strengthen the party at the grassroots level by including more women and farmers. He stated, "You are the facilitator of the party's victory from panchayat to Parliament. You have to make BJP invincible so that no one dares to betray it again."
Critiquing Sharad Pawar's tenure as Chief Minister and Union Agriculture Minister, Shah alleged that Pawar failed to prevent farmer suicides in the state. He asserted, "Only the BJP can do it (prevent farmer suicides). Prime Minister Narendra Modi has devised several schemes for farmers' welfare."
Shah also addressed the opposition, advising them to observe the BJP government's fulfillment of its promises without questioning the methods. He said, "The Union minister asked the Opposition to only 'watch' the BJP government fulfilling all its assurances and not question how it will be done."
The Home Minister's statements have elicited responses from political adversaries. NCP spokespersons have defended Sharad Pawar's political legacy, emphasizing his contributions to the state's development and dismissing Shah's remarks as politically motivated. Similarly, representatives from Shiv Sena (UBT) have criticized the BJP's alliance strategies, accusing them of undermining democratic principles.
Political analysts observe that Shah's comments are part of a broader strategy to consolidate the BJP's position in Maharashtra by discrediting longstanding regional leaders. They note that the emphasis on "betrayal politics" aims to resonate with voters seeking stability and transparent governance.
The BJP's significant victory in Maharashtra is expected to influence the state's political landscape substantially. With a strong majority, the party is poised to implement its policy agenda more effectively, potentially reshaping regional alliances and power structures.