Sharad Pawar expected to step back in electoral politics this year

NCP supremo Sharad Pawar is likely to return to the electoral politics and contest the coming Lok Sabha polls from Madha in south-western Maharashtra, a party source said here Wednesday. Pawar is currently a member of the Rajya Sabha.

The source claimed it was felt that Pawar should be a Lok Sabha member in the event of him emerging as Opposition's candidate for the prime minister's post after the elections. The NCP has five Lok Sabha members at present. The Madha seat in Solapur district is represented by party leader Vijaysinh Mohite-Patil.

The source said Mohite-Patil was likely to be offered a Rajya Sabha berth. Pawar had won from Madha in 2009. He had later announced that he would not contest elections any longer.

"Pawar is set to contest from Madha. If he enters the Lok Sabha, it suits the perception that a (probable) prime minister should be a member of the lower house," the source said. Pawar, given his experience and stature, can emerge as a candidate for the top post if the elections throw up a fractured verdict, he said.

"You never know what kind of situation will emerge after the elections," the source added. Speaking to the media here, Maharashtra NCP chief Jayant Patil said several leaders of the party requested Pawar a fortnight ago to contest the polls.

"Initially he was against the idea. But later he said he would get back to us on the issue," Patil said. "We think he should enter the Lok Sabha given the changed situation in the country....he should go to the Lok Sabha and give a better momentum to bring all (opposition) parties together which he has been doing so far," Patil added.

He, however, denied that the move was aimed at helping make Pawar prime minister. The NCP supremo entering the electoral fray would also energise the party workers, he said.

Patil also said that the Congress and NCP would be finalising their seat-sharing deal in the next four-five days. Pawar will hold a meeting with NCP leaders Thursday to discuss candidates, another party source said.

(With inputs from agencies.)