Sanjay Raut Slams Sharad Pawar for Awarding Eknath Shinde, Calls It ‘Political Dalali’

Shiv Sena (UBT) has expressed outrage over NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar’s decision to present an award to Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde, at a ceremony in Delhi on February 10th. The prestigious Mahadji Shinde Rashtriya Gaurav Award, recognizing Shinde’s "decisive leadership" and "commitment to the state’s progress," was conferred by Pawar, who is part of Mahavikas Agadi alliance in Maharashtra, also an important ally of INDIA bloc.

The event has sparked significant controversy, with Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut accusing Pawar of engaging in “political dalali” (political brokerage). Raut’s scathing remarks come in response to Pawar’s participation in the ceremony, where Shinde was honored despite his role in the 2019 rebellion that led to the splitting of Shiv Sena.

During the event, Shinde praised Pawar’s political acumen, saying, “No one understands the googly bowled by Pawar in politics, not even people close to him. But I am sure he will not bowl a googly at me.” He further acknowledged Pawar’s skill in maintaining political relationships, adding, “One should learn from Pawar how to maintain relationships in politics”, amidst speculations of growing camaraderie between Pawar and BJP post Maharashtra poll debacle for the Mahavikash Agadi alliance.

Pawar, in turn, lauded Shinde’s leadership, particularly in Thane, Navi Mumbai, and Mumbai. He recalled how former municipal leaders like Savlaram Patil and Rangnekar had contributed to the region's growth, positioning Shinde as a key figure in continuing this legacy.

However, the award ceremony has been met with criticism from Shiv Sena (UBT), which views Pawar’s involvement as a betrayal. Raut, a staunch critic of Shinde's defection, expressed his displeasure, stating, “It was not an award ceremony; it was a ‘political dalali’ that is going on in Delhi.”

Raut also took aim at the broader context of the event, questioning the legitimacy of the awards. He remarked, “What relation do these awardees have with art? I was also invited to this Literary Conference, but I will not attend.”

The Shiv Sena (UBT) MP further challenged Pawar’s understanding of political history in Thane, asserting, “Pawar Saheb has been misinformed. It was Shiv Sena that developed Thane. Eknath Shinde entered Thane politics much later.” Raut suggested that if Pawar required further information, party member Rahan Vichare would be able to provide it.

Raut also made a pointed remark, claiming, “Respected Sharad Pawar honored Shinde with the Mahadji Shinde award, but in reality, he indirectly honored Amit Shah, not Eknath Shinde. This is unfortunate. Pawar is now honoring leaders who act as political agents.”