Ajit Pawar’s Silence Raises Eyebrows Amid String of Serious Allegations Against Party Leaders

Accusations of rape, dowry death, and financial misconduct plague NCP (Ajit Pawar faction); growing public outrage over lack of response

Pune, May 22 –
A political storm is brewing in Maharashtra as the Nationalist Congress Party (Ajit Pawar faction) finds itself at the center of a string of serious criminal allegations involving senior party functionaries. From rape and financial fraud to a suspected dowry-related murder, multiple controversies have surfaced over the past few weeks—yet party leader and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar remains conspicuously silent.

Accused Leaders Hold Key Party Positions

The list of accused within the NCP (Ajit Pawar group) includes high-ranking individuals. Shantanu Kukde, the state vice president of the party’s minority cell, has been accused of rape in a case that has sent shockwaves across political and civil circles.

In another instance, Deepak Mankar, the party’s Pune city president, has been booked in a financial misappropriation case. Adding to the list, senior party worker Rajendra Hagwane is now accused of being involved in the alleged dowry death of his daughter-in-law Vaishnavi Hagwane.

These allegations, serious in nature and deeply disturbing, have prompted questions about the ethical framework and internal accountability of the party.

Political Power Being Misused, Say Observers

Activists and citizens alike are expressing concern over what appears to be a pattern of misuse of political power. “The influence that comes with political stature is being used not to serve the public, but to silence victims and suppress justice,” said a Pune-based social rights advocate.

Allegations of extortion, threats, assault, and now sexual crimes show a growing trend that is not restricted to just one political faction. This appears to be part of a wider decay of accountability among the political elite.

A Society Desensitized to Political Bullying?

What’s more troubling is the perceived normalization of such behavior. The power and visibility enjoyed by politicians in Indian society seem to shield them from consequences. Over time, public desensitization to such incidents appears to be emboldening offenders.

In the case of Vaishnavi Hagwane, the dowry angle adds yet another layer of social rot. Reports suggest that the wedding was used as a symbol of political and social prestige, with large sums of money allegedly exchanged. Activists argue this demonstrates how deeply political interests have penetrated even personal, familial spaces.

Families Fear Prestige Loss, Remain Silent

Observers point out that in several cases, the families of female victims hesitate to take legal steps or go public due to the fear of social stigma or loss of reputation. “Parents are indirectly becoming part of the problem by choosing silence over justice,” said a Pune-based women’s rights lawyer.

In a time when the country claims to be progressing, the reality that dowry deaths are still prevalent in urban and educated circles is a national shame.

Demands for Internal Code of Conduct

With increasing scrutiny on political parties, there is a growing demand for them to implement stricter internal codes of conduct. Analysts argue that leaders must hold themselves accountable and create a zero-tolerance culture for criminal behavior among their cadre.

“It is high time that political parties stop protecting wrongdoers simply because they bring votes or muscle power,” said a senior journalist. “Public life demands public accountability.”

Ajit Pawar’s Silence Fuels Speculation

Perhaps the most notable aspect of these developments is the complete silence maintained by Deputy CM Ajit Pawar. Despite being the face of the party and holding high moral responsibility, he has not issued a single public statement addressing any of the allegations.

This silence is being widely criticized by political observers, media commentators, and citizens alike. “When top leadership chooses not to speak out, it signals tacit approval or indifference, which is dangerous in a democracy,” said a political analyst in Mumbai.

Social media too has been abuzz with citizens demanding clarity and accountability from Pawar. Hashtags like #SpeakUpAjitPawar and #JusticeForVaishnavi are beginning to trend on platforms like Twitter and Instagram.