Sachin Ahir is ‘Master Blaster’ of politics and social service: Maha Dy CM

Mumbai, July 1 (IANS) Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde congratulated Sachin Ahir for his unopposed election as the Deputy Chairman of Maharashtra Legislative Council, saying that he is a multi-faceted personality and the “Master Blaster” of politics and social service.

“Every individual has a unique working style, but in Sachin Ahir, our team has found a true all-rounder. No matter who the bowler is or how fast the delivery, Sachin Ahir never stops hitting sixes. Just as Sachin Tendulkar is a legend in cricket, Sachin Ahir is a stalwart in politics and social work. As one Sachin retired from cricket, the other Sachin has strapped on his pads of responsibility to begin a grand new innings,” claimed the Deputy Chief Minister.

Shinde recalled that the party had voted for Ahir as a Shiv Sena candidate back in 2019, emphasising that he remains a dedicated Shivsainik today and will continue to be in the future.

He expressed immense pride that after Neelam Gorhe, another Shiv Sena leader has assumed this prestigious constitutional post.

Shinde used Urdu couplets to honour Ahir’s composure and enduring popularity: “Jo toofanon mein shant rahe, use samandar kehte hain… Jo har dil par raj kare, use sikander kehte hain.” (The one who stays calm during storms is like the ocean… The one who rules every heart is a true conqueror.)

He noted that despite serving as a three-time MLA and a Minister of State, Ahir never lost touch with the common man.

He also praised Ahir’s social initiatives through the Sankalp Pratishthan, which transformed the traditional Dahi Handi festival into a platform for social service, medical camps, and blood donation drives, perfectly embodying Balasaheb Thackeray’s mantra of “80 per cent social work and 20 per cent politics.”

Advising the new Deputy Chairman on the gravity of his new role, Shinde emphasised the absolute neutrality required by the chair.

He stated that once Ahir sits in that chair, rules become greater than the party, traditions become bigger than emotions, and restraint becomes more powerful than voice.

He added that this rule applies equally to the ruling benches and that Ahir must ensure justice is delivered to the opposition.

From that seat, Shinde said, political parties must fade away; only the Constitution of B.R. Ambedkar and the principles of pure justice must shine through.

Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar stated that the late Ajit Pawar had recognised Ahir’s leadership potential at an early age and provided him with significant political opportunities.

She emphasised that the bond between Ajit Pawar and Sachin Ahir extended beyond politics, rooted in close family affection. Sunetra Pawar noted that Ajit Dada always prioritised merit and competence.

Recognising Ahir’s leadership capabilities, she said, he entrusted him with major responsibilities within the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP).

Even after Ahir transitioned to the Shiv Sena, she added, he maintained consistent contact with Ajit Pawar while handling the party’s organisation in Pune.

Congratulating Sachin Ahir on his election as the Deputy Chairman of the Legislative Council, Chairman Ram Shinde remarked that the time has come for Ahir to set aside his batsman’s bat and don the umpire’s hat.

He expressed hope that, akin to an umpire’s role, Sachin Ahir would conduct the proceedings of the House with balance, patience, and complete impartiality.

Referring to a cricketing analogy previously used by Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde during his speech, Ram Shinde said that Sachin Bhau may have hit fours and sixes as a batsman in the past, but his role in the House now is that of an umpire. Therefore, he must lower his bat, put on the umpire’s hat, and run the House by ensuring equal justice to both sides.

–IANS

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