"Then Pawar Saheb Would Not Have Been Stabbed in the Back" — Sanjay Raut Intensifies Attack on Praful Patel

The political war of words between Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut and NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) leader Praful Patel has escalated, with Raut once again targeting Patel over his alleged betrayal of Sharad Pawar.

Earlier, Raut had accused Patel of turning his back on Sharad Pawar during a critical political juncture, saying, “Had some people remained loyal, Pawar Saheb wouldn’t have been stabbed in the back.” In response, Praful Patel hit back, saying, “It would have been better if you had taken information from Pawar Saheb before commenting on my character and history. Grapes are sour…”

Following Patel’s retort, Sanjay Raut doubled down on his remarks in a fiery interaction with the media. “Pawar Saheb himself gave me the information,” Raut said. “If everyone had taken the time to understand Pawar Saheb’s position, he wouldn’t have been betrayed like this. These gentlemen are businessmen. They talk about changing colors — but who really changed theirs?”

Raut went on to defend his party’s ideological stance, adding, “We are standing firmly on the platform of Balasaheb’s Shiv Sena. Who deserted Pawar Saheb and walked away? If you’re content being there, washing dishes for them, then go ahead. But don’t try to undermine our self-respect.”

This exchange underscores the deepening rift between factions of the NCP and opposition parties in Maharashtra, following the political realignment led by Ajit Pawar last year. Leaders like Praful Patel, who joined the ruling BJP-Shiv Sena alliance, continue to face criticism from the opposition for what they see as political opportunism and betrayal.

The sharp rhetoric from Raut is likely to further intensify the already heated political atmosphere ahead of the upcoming elections.