'New Putin in making...': Pawar criticizes Modi, Fadnavis responds
What's the story
Ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, National Congress Party (NCP) supremo Sharad Pawar has launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Pawar also accused the PM of being more focused on criticizing others than showcasing his government's achievements over the past decade.
According to the veteran leader, previous prime ministers had worked diligently to build a new India, however, PM Modi has only focussed on downgrading opposition governments.
Legacy debate
Pawar praises Nehru, warns of potential rise in autocracy
Speaking in Amravati, Maharashtra, Pawar praised former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru for his significant contributions to the nation.
He added that Nehru's legacy is unforgettable despite PM Modi's constant criticism.
Pawar also expressed concern that the PM seems more focused on finding fault with others than celebrating the Centre's accomplishments during his tenure.
He raised concerns of a "rise in autocracy in India," urging citizens to remain vigilant.
Political sparring
Pawar likens PM Modi to Russian President Putin
Pawar further accused PM Modi of instilling fear among the public, likening his actions to those of Russian President Vladimir Putin.
"We fear that a new Putin is in the making in India," he said during a campaign rally.
In response, Maharashtra Deputy CM and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Devendra Fadnavis dismissed the remarks as Pawar's desperate attempts ahead of the general elections.
"Whenever Modi ji is abused, he registers a bigger win," Fadnavis said.
Modi slams Congress
PM Modi slanders Congress in most recent opposition
This exchange took place hours after PM Modi mounted another attack on the Congress in his speech during a poll rally in Rajasthan's Tonk-Sawai Madhopur Lok Sabha constituency—which will vote on April 26.
The PM alleged that the Congress tried to provide reservation to Muslims in Andhra Pradesh by reducing the reservations for the Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) in 2004.
Moreover, he added that the Congress "did not care" about the Constitution.