By Our Special Correspondent
Ahead of the next round of assembly elections, the NCP on Saturday made a clarion call for the unity of anti-BJP forces and said party chief Sharad Pawar will play an important role in this regard.
Addressing the NCP's extended working committee here, Pawar accused the Modi government of being "anti-farmer" and "failing" to address the unemployment issue. He also lashed out at the BJP over the release of the prisoners in the Bilkis Bano gangrape case.
"I am surprised that the Prime Minister spoke about upholding the dignity of women and two days later the BJP government in the Prime Minister's home state commuted the punishment of those who committed atrocities against Bilkis Bano and her family," Pawar said.
The veteran leader said farmers were expecting good prices for the paddy crop, but the government imposed a 20 percent export duty on paddy and banned the export of broken rice. The meeting came up with a draft political resolution for the unity of like-minded parties to fight against the BJP and its allies.
“Sharad Pawar played an important role in bringing these parties together and putting together a united front to counter the NDA.
Speaking on the political resolution, senior NCP leader Praful Patel said leaders across the political spectrum sought Pawar's advice on issues of national importance, adding that an experienced leader would play a key role in shaping politics in times to come.
Addressing the gathering, senior Nakup leader PC Cheku lashed out at the Congress for remaining in the old mindset and failing to recognize the changed political landscape.
Former Congress leader Chacko said that Congress has not won a single panchayat election in Uttar Pradesh and Pawar is the only one who can bring all the opposition parties together.
Assembly elections will be held in BJP-ruled Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh in December, while elections will be held in nine other states, including Rajasthan and Karnataka, next year.
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee have also held talks with Pawar and opposition leaders are pitching unity to take on the BJP.
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