'Are we here to play marbles?' Ajit Pawar’s remarks to farmer spark row in flood-hit Marathwada

Ajit Pawar

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar triggered controversy on Thursday during a visit to flood-hit areas of Marathwada and other parts of the state, after a sharp exchange with a farmer seeking government help.

While interacting with locals, a farmer reportedly detailed his losses from incessant rains and asked for relief measures. Pawar snapped back, saying he had been working since early morning. “Don’t you think we understand? Are we here to play marbles?” he asked the farmer.

Suggesting that the man was trying to undermine officials’ efforts, Pawar added, “I have been working since 6 am. You are trying to suppress (the voice of) those who are working.” He even quipped, “Why don’t we make him (the farmer) the chief minister?”

The remarks, captured on video, quickly spread online and drew criticism from opposition parties and farmer groups.

This is not the first time Pawar has faced backlash for his public comments. Earlier this month, he reprimanded IPS officer Anjana Krishna during an operation against illegal excavation of murrum soil in Solapur district. When the Sub-Divisional Police Officer told him, “How am I supposed to know you are the Deputy Chief Minister? Sir, please call me directly on my phone,” Pawar shot back, “Ek minute, ek minute main tere upar action lunga (One minute, I will take action against you).”

Amid the controversy, the Maharashtra government announced financial assistance for flood-affected families. The next of kin of those who died in the floods will receive Rs 4 lakh each, while compensation for livestock losses will range from Rs 37,500 per milch animal to Rs 4,000 for small animals such as goats, sheep, or pigs.

*with agency inputs