“You’ve the Votes, I’ve the Funds” — Indian Politician Tells Voters

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader, Ajit Pawar, has sparked controversy after remarks made during a campaign rally in Malegaon, Baramati tehsil. Speaking ahead of the Malegaon Nagar Panchayat elections, Pawar told residents that while they have the power to vote, he controls the allocation of development funds.

Pawar urged voters to support all 18 candidates from his panel, which includes NCP nominees and alliance partners, promising that the town would benefit from development similar to that seen in Baramati if his panel secured a clean sweep. “The vote is in your hands, and the fund is in my hand,” he said, linking voter support directly to the delivery of government schemes.

The comments have drawn criticism from opposition parties. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Ambadas Danve condemned the statement, saying that public funds come from taxpayers and not a politician, and questioned why the Election Commission had not intervened.

Elections for the Nagar Panchayats across Maharashtra, including Malegaon, are scheduled for December 2.