Laxman Hake Calls NCP Anniversary a 'Black Day' for OBCs
As the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) celebrates its 26th foundation day with parallel events hosted by Sharad Pawar and Ajit Pawar, political activist and former NCP member Laxman Hake has sparked controversy by branding the day a “black day” for the Other Backward Classes (OBCs), nomadic tribes, and formerly bonded communities.
In a strongly worded social media post, Hake criticized the party’s historical and ongoing treatment of marginalized communities. His post has become the focus of intense political debate, adding a new dimension to an already charged atmosphere surrounding the NCP’s dual anniversary celebrations.
Referring to the split within the party and its ideological foundations, Hake stated:
“The NCP’s anniversary is a black day for OBCs, nomadic, and freed communities. On May 20, 1999, when Sharad Pawar left the Congress, the future seemed uncertain. In that moment of crisis, it was the late Shivaji Bapu Shendge who welcomed him first — yet the very family that supported him was later sidelined.”
He accused Sharad Pawar of betraying early supporters and marginalizing OBC leaders such as Chhagan Bhujbal, Prof. Laxmanrao Dhoble, and Laxman Mane, alleging they were continually “humiliated and sidelined” within the party structure. He further asserted that the NCP's actions have long been caste-driven, despite its progressive rhetoric.
Hake alleged that the NCP continues to work against the interests of the Dhangar community. “On one side, the NCP celebrates its 26th anniversary, and on the other, homes of the Dhangars in Raigad are being threatened with demolition. These actions, ordered by Guardian Minister and NCP state president Sunil Tatkare, expose the party’s real intent,” he claimed.
He also criticized the NCP-supported Sambhaji Brigade for allegedly demanding the removal of the tiger statue, an act he suggested was meant to undermine cultural pride. Referring to the recent 300th birth anniversary of Ahilyabai Holkar, he said attempts were made to dampen the celebration’s spirit, which was met with strong resistance by a united OBC front.
Hake launched a broader ideological critique of the party, questioning its commitment to the ideals of Phule, Shahu, and Ambedkar.
“The NCP cites the names of Phule, Shahu, and Ambedkar, but continues to work against the very causes they championed. Ajit Pawar slashed the funding of Mahajyoti, an institution set up in Phule’s name. Their actions contradict their words,” he said.
He accused the party of investing heavily in image-building while sidelining genuine efforts for social justice. Drawing parallels between Jawaharlal Nehru, Yashwantrao Chavan, and Sharad Pawar, Hake claimed that this ideological lineage has always ignored the interests of OBCs and marginalized groups.
“Yashwantrao Chavan may be glorified, but it was Vasantrao Naik who truly worked for inclusive development — promoting schemes like the Employment Guarantee Scheme, Bhudan Movement, and reservation for nomadic communities. Yet his name is rarely mentioned.”
Citing MNS president Raj Thackeray’s earlier remark that “caste politics began with the formation of the NCP,” Hake condemned the party for inciting divisions. He recounted past instances of unrest, including lathicharges and alleged targeting of OBC leaders’ properties.
Hake concluded with a call for unity:
“We must no longer fall prey to divide-and-rule strategies. It’s time to build a unified front of Balutedars, Alutedars, micro OBCs, nomadic tribes, Dalits, and Adivasis. Only then can we fulfill Babasaheb Ambedkar’s vision of social democracy.”
His post, rich in historical references and political criticism, has gone viral on social media, sparking fresh debate on the role and legacy of the NCP in Maharashtra’s social justice landscape.