Supriya Sule Speaks Out at NCP Foundation Day: “I Will Not Criticize Those Who Left”
Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) MP Supriya Sule delivered a heartfelt and powerful speech during a program commemorating the 26th anniversary of the NCP. Addressing party workers and leaders, Sule reflected on the journey of the party, its ideology, and its continued commitment to serving the common man. At the outset of her speech, Sule mentioned her upcoming engagement in Delhi, saying, “Many people have already spoken because at 7 PM today, Pawar Saheb and I have been invited by Prime Minister Modi to attend a program related to ‘Operation Sindoor’. Therefore, we have to catch a flight to Delhi by 2 PM.”
Recalling the Party's Journey
Reflecting on the party’s inception, she said, “I still remember the founding ceremony at Shivaji Park 26 years ago. Chhagan Bhujbal was the first state president. We came to power within six months and ruled for 15 consecutive years. This success was due to the collective efforts of our leadership and grassroots workers.” Sule grew emotional while remembering late leader R.R. Patil. “No NCP program can ever be complete without remembering him,” she said, paying homage to his enduring legacy.
Personal Gratitude and Pawar's Influence
Sule acknowledged the role of the party in her personal political journey. “I have been elected MP four times, and behind that success lies the contribution of my colleagues, which I will never forget. These are my values,” she said. She also shared a defining moment from 2019, when Sharad Pawar addressed a rally in the rain, soaking wet, a moment that went viral and ignited the party’s resurgence. Recalling July 2, the day many leaders defected, she quoted a journalist who asked who the face of the NCP was now. “Pawar Saheb raised his hand and said, ‘Sharad Pawar’. That confidence is our strength,” she affirmed.
Focus on Public Service Over Power
“Power is not our ultimate goal; service to the common man is,” Sule declared. She emphasized that even from the opposition, the NCP had made its voice heard effectively in Parliament, citing their contributions to debates such as the new Income Tax Bill. She also noted the party’s active stance on the proposed “One Nation, One Election” policy.
Firm Stand on Farmers and Women’s Issues
Sule strongly advocated for farmer welfare, demanding immediate loan waivers. “This is not a political demand; the situation is dire,” she said. Addressing the Vaishnavi Hagavane case, she demanded swift action against dowry-related violence and called for a “dowry-free Maharashtra.” She also pushed for continuity in schemes like the Ladki Bahin Yojana, ensuring women's welfare programs are not hindered.
Vision for the Party’s Future
Proposing ways to strengthen the party’s ideological foundation, she said, “Two-day free workshops should be held every month for all party workers. This will help maintain a strong ideological connection.” In a veiled criticism of the current ruling establishment, she remarked, “If the king is flying around in a helicopter, how will he understand the suffering of the people?” Supriya Sule’s speech was a balanced mix of reflection, gratitude, vision, and critique — reaffirming the NCP’s position as a party of ideology and public service.