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The Sharad Pawar Chat

Despite a series of appointments later on Wednesday night, Sharad Pawar stayed on for 90 minutes, taking all sorts of questions, from all corners of the world.

The Maratha chieftain kept his cool in the line of fire, providing some insight when he was not fending off pointed queries about his political agenda and strategy. Check out the transcript.

Sharad Pawar

Sandesh (Wed Sep 4 19:55:04 1996 IST):

Hi! Is Mr Pawar there?


Himesh (Wed Sep 4 19:55:22 1996 IST):

Hi Sandesh


Himesh (Wed Sep 4 19:55:33 1996 IST):

Hi Sandesh


Sandesh (Wed Sep 4 19:58:52 1996 IST):

Hi Himesh


Gundaswamy (Wed Sep 4 19:58:54 1996 IST):

Namashkar, Sahib!


Gundaswamy (Wed Sep 4 20:00:39 1996 IST):

Saab aale ke nahin??


anant gokhale (Wed Sep 4 20:00:48 1996 IST):

Namaskar! Mr. Pawar is there?


deshi (Wed Sep 4 20:02:25 1996 IST):

Sharadji Namaskar! Suswagatam! We are happy to be able to chat with you I hope you will talk to us


Sandesh (Wed Sep 4 20:04:05 1996 IST):

Hi Anant! Where are you from?


Rediff On The NeT (Wed Sep 4 20:04:20 1996 IST):

Mr Pawar is at his home in Delhi. Unfortunately, there is no electricity in Mr Pawar's home at the current moment. An electrician is attending to the problem, and we should be able to speak to Mr Pawar shortly. has


Gokhale (Wed Sep 4 20:04:52 1996 IST):

Hi everyone


Arnold Capell (Wed Sep 4 20:05:28 1996 IST):

Hi. Is Mr Pawar in?


MarathiManus (Wed Sep 4 20:06:20 1996 IST):

Even politicians of the stature of Mr. Pawar is powerless in Delhi? Great!


Gokhale (Wed Sep 4 20:06:22 1996 IST):

Hi Arnold it seems the electricity at his place is playing traunt so where are you room?


Gundaswamy (Wed Sep 4 20:06:45 1996 IST):

Pawar Sahib, we would like to hear from you....with no holds barred


MarathiManus (Wed Sep 4 20:08:40 1996 IST):

I have an idea. lets us connect all the political mouthpieces to the steam lines, that should generate enough hot air to drive any number of electrical generator turbines.


Gokhale (Wed Sep 4 20:09:08 1996 IST):

Hi Marathi Manus


Gundaswamy (Wed Sep 4 20:09:13 1996 IST):

MarathiManus, you are there - but not quite. You have not reckoned with Mr. Pawar's powers. That's what counts


Gokhale (Wed Sep 4 20:09:27 1996 IST):

Hi Marathi Manus


Pramod Paranjape (Wed Sep 4 20:09:46 1996 IST):

Mr. Pawar, Are you currently without (electrical) power ?


deshi (Wed Sep 4 20:10:25 1996 IST):

What's the Central Electric Authority of India doing? Is it trying to squeer this pitch?


Rediff On The NeT (Wed Sep 4 20:10:27 1996 IST):

Good news! Electricity has been restored and as soon as we establish a link, we should be able to speak to one of India's best known politicians.


MarathiManus (Wed Sep 4 20:10:40 1996 IST):

Hi Gokhale, Goondaswamy and others let us wait. After all we have been waiting a long time for some progress anyway.


swadeshi (Wed Sep 4 20:11:37 1996 IST):

sagalyana namaskar!


Gundaswamy (Wed Sep 4 20:11:44 1996 IST):

Mr. Paranjpe, Mr. Pawar even without current is capable of shockers!!!!


deshi (Wed Sep 4 20:12:20 1996 IST):

Dear Powerji, This could never have happened if you were in the driver's seat, where we hope you will be soon.


Arnold Capell (Wed Sep 4 20:13:01 1996 IST):

Hi, I am from the Prez's state, Arkansas. Little Rock in fact.


Gundaswamy (Wed Sep 4 20:13:14 1996 IST):

MarathiManus, the name is Gundaswamy...don't make me out to be a goon


deshi (Wed Sep 4 20:14:08 1996 IST):

Swadeshi,namaskar,tumhala pann! Doosre saghle kuthey aahe?


Gundaswamy (Wed Sep 4 20:14:24 1996 IST):

Is the big man on the line?????????????


MarathiManus (Wed Sep 4 20:14:28 1996 IST):

Mia Culpa Gundaswamy!


Paul Allen (Wed Sep 4 20:14:40 1996 IST):

Where is Mr Pawar?


Paul Allen (Wed Sep 4 20:15:34 1996 IST):

Mr Pawar do you think the Maharashtra government will last it's full term?


vaiju (Wed Sep 4 20:15:36 1996 IST):

namaskar and jai maharashtra


MarathiManus (Wed Sep 4 20:16:27 1996 IST):

I think we are still in 19th century when it comes to power and telecommunications in New Delhi.


deshi (Wed Sep 4 20:16:53 1996 IST):

hey, what are the techis doing


MarathiManus (Wed Sep 4 20:17:18 1996 IST):

I think we are still in 19th century when it comes to power and telecommunications in New Delhi.


Gundaswamy (Wed Sep 4 20:17:38 1996 IST):

A big question mark, Paul??


Sharad Pawar Mr. Sharad Pawar (Wed Sep 4 20:18:38 1996 IST):

This is Rediff on the Net with Mr. Sharad Pawar in Delhi. We apologise for the delay as there were some temporary disruptions in getting through the line. Mr. Pawar is ready to answer your questions so start right away!!!!


Paul Allen (Wed Sep 4 20:19:45 1996 IST):

Mr Pawar: Do you think the BJP-SS government in Maharashtra government will last it's full term?


deshi (Wed Sep 4 20:19:56 1996 IST):

Welcome Sharadji-


vaiju (Wed Sep 4 20:20:02 1996 IST):

Do you repent your decision to go at national level and desert Maharashtra


Gundaswamy (Wed Sep 4 20:20:39 1996 IST):

Namaskar, Pawar Sahib


Mr. Sharad Pawar (Wed Sep 4 20:21:12 1996 IST):

Paul Allen : very difficult to say. If BJP is honest and sincere to their thinking which they preach and if they believe in some self respect then it will be very difficult to continue with their partner.


MarathiManus (Wed Sep 4 20:21:18 1996 IST):

Mr. Pawar, a nation commands respect in the international scene based only on its power, either economical or military. For example till China got the H Bomb USA and other western block countries did not care for its views. How do you rate India's performance in this area?


P L Kandy (Wed Sep 4 20:21:24 1996 IST):

Mr Pawar, there is an impression that the Congress is dead. Is there any way the Congress can be revived? And if so, how?


Paul Allen (Wed Sep 4 20:21:32 1996 IST):

Mr Pawar: Why Congress did not do well in the last Parliamentary elections? What went wrong? Corruption or the liberalisation policy adopted by the Congress government?


Sandesh (Wed Sep 4 20:21:55 1996 IST):

Why have you deserted the state which gave you the power you weild today?


Gundaswamy (Wed Sep 4 20:21:56 1996 IST):

Maharashtra is not the same with you.


deshi (Wed Sep 4 20:22:51 1996 IST):

We need you back in the State of Maharashtra. When will you make a come back? Any plans to do so in the near future?


Arnold Capell (Wed Sep 4 20:23:24 1996 IST):

Mr Pawar, I agree with Mr Kandy. The Congress cannot continue to drift from crisis to crisis. I was surprised to learn of the alignment with the Bahujan Party in UP. How can the Congress play second fiddle to the BSP? And why did you not prtest against the decision? Only Mr Pilot has. Do you think the decision was correct?


Gundaswamy (Wed Sep 4 20:23:50 1996 IST):

Let's have some words Mr. Pawar, do you need some hep???


Mr. Sharad Pawar (Wed Sep 4 20:24:17 1996 IST):

Paul Allen : very difficult to say. If BJP is honest and sincere to their thinking which they preach and if they believe in some self respect then it will be very difficult to continue with their partner.


P L Kandy (Wed Sep 4 20:24:53 1996 IST):

This is the fiftieth year of our freedom. What is your vision of India for the next 50 years?


MarathiManus (Wed Sep 4 20:25:06 1996 IST):

12 questions and one response so far>


AM (Wed Sep 4 20:25:11 1996 IST):

:-)


Sandesh (Wed Sep 4 20:25:41 1996 IST):

Mr Pawar, you still haven't answered me. Why did you ditch Maharashtra for New Delhi?


deshi (Wed Sep 4 20:26:03 1996 IST):

We look to you as the next PM. How long do you think we will have to wait for that to happen?


vaiju (Wed Sep 4 20:26:19 1996 IST):

Yourcomment on ongoing controversy on ENRON


P L Kandy (Wed Sep 4 20:26:31 1996 IST):

Tariq Anwar and company have demanded that the issue of corruption be discussed at the CPP. Do you agree with such a demand? Can the Congress recover from the taint of the Sukh Ram and urea scandals? And do you think corruption is the single biggest issue in the country today?


Gundaswamy (Wed Sep 4 20:26:50 1996 IST):

What do you think of the newly formed Deve Gowda, Bal Thackeray and Mulaym Singh Yadav combine??? What seem's to be in the offing???


Mr. Sharad Pawar (Wed Sep 4 20:27:45 1996 IST):

Arnold : descion was absolutely correct I myself was a party to the descion. Traditional base of the Cong party in UP was sch. caste mintorities and upper classes. Unfortunately we lost all. So we had to start form scratch. Whether we like it or not BSP is representing the weaker sections in the Hindi belt. We should start with the weaker sections. Better to go ith the BSP. Cong is a major national party of 110 yrs standing but as on today our position in UP is very very bad. We have to accept ground reality. We got just 8% vote in last Parl. elections in UP but BSP got 22%. We have to accept secondary position.


deshi (Wed Sep 4 20:27:50 1996 IST):

MArathi Manus, Just let the great man get warmed up to this media. Let's hear it .


marathmola (Wed Sep 4 20:27:54 1996 IST):

What is your comment on Balasaheb Thakare and Primeminister meet ?


MarathiManus (Wed Sep 4 20:28:14 1996 IST):

so far 25 + questions and one repeated response. I have a distinct feeling either we are not reaching Mr. Pawar or he is dodging the questions.


vaiju (Wed Sep 4 20:28:54 1996 IST):

Here also you are so unpredictable?


Gokhale (Wed Sep 4 20:29:33 1996 IST):



Gundaswamy (Wed Sep 4 20:29:39 1996 IST):

What do you think of the on going corruption in the Indian Political Scene. There have been many Scene Stealers, some have played cameo roles. How do you fit into the picture??


Arnold Capell (Wed Sep 4 20:29:45 1996 IST):

I am shocked Mr Pawar that you should readily accept second position in UP. Does that mean the Congress is dead in UP? Please let us have an honest answer. With the state so polarised on caste and communal lines, does that mean the party has lost its base forever?


Sandesh (Wed Sep 4 20:30:00 1996 IST):

MarathiManus: Patience is the essence... I hope you've noticed that Mr Pawar has just answered another question. Please to keep in mind that these people are using the Indian telephone system.


Mr. Sharad Pawar (Wed Sep 4 20:31:03 1996 IST):

Gunduswamy : this combination is not there. Deve Gowda's meeting with Thackeray was a condolence meeting. And there was no politics involved in their conversation. Mr Thackeray who openly propagate Hitler's thinking and always support authoratian and dictatorial approach, and no sensible and democratic thinking will go with him.


Paul Allen (Wed Sep 4 20:31:09 1996 IST):

Mr Pawar: Congress was considered to be a party which included all caste and religion. But recently we see that dalits and muslims have gone either to SP or BSP, Brahmins and middle income group have gone to BJP? Why then Congress has suddenly lost it's base?


Archana (Wed Sep 4 20:31:38 1996 IST):

With prominent Congress leaders accused of corruption and the party image tarnished greatly, how do you think the Congress party can redeem its image?


Archana (Wed Sep 4 20:31:40 1996 IST):

With prominent Congress leaders accused of corruption and the party image tarnished greatly, how do you think the Congress party can redeem its image?


deshi (Wed Sep 4 20:31:41 1996 IST):

Sir, Whenis the Congress going to wake up from its apathy and start the regrouping process to take over the reins of the country? How long will it pander to the whims of an old man? Infusion of new blood will rejuvenate the party


A G HAST (Wed Sep 4 20:31:52 1996 IST):

Sir, there is a perception that a BJP victory in UP will lead to the collapse of the UF govt. Do you agree with such an analysis? And if so, why?


Sandesh (Wed Sep 4 20:33:28 1996 IST):

Don't you think Mr Rao should resign as party president at least now?


A G HAST (Wed Sep 4 20:33:33 1996 IST):

Come, come, Mr Pawar, you believe Mr Deve Gowda's explanation? If you remember, Mr Thackeray said in Bombay that he discussed something of national relevance with Mr Deve Gowda. So how can you say nothing political was not discussed?


Paul Allen (Wed Sep 4 20:33:41 1996 IST):

Mr Pawar: I do not agree with you on Mr Gunduswamy's answer, as Mr Deve Gowda's mother passed away last month. And Mr Thackeray should have gone to pay his condolence. But what we are seeing is the other way round? How is this possible?


MarathiManus (Wed Sep 4 20:33:54 1996 IST):

Mr. Pawar your assesment of Congress losings its mass appeal in UP is right on the target, but would you like to comment that congress of today bears no resemblence to congress of yesterday? The leaders of yesterday were idealists and commited to the cause, todays are in only for their personal gain, proof is the multitude of scandals in progress and being investigated, would you like to comment what you would do as a leader?


Gundaswamy (Wed Sep 4 20:35:26 1996 IST):

Will the Congress party survive the present gloom and the rut that it finds itself in?? What would your plan of action?


vaiju (Wed Sep 4 20:35:53 1996 IST):

Mr Pawar, Don't you think this is a high time that you should Congress which is riddled with corruption and has lost credibility and faith?


deshi (Wed Sep 4 20:35:53 1996 IST):

Some people I know have still to recover from their traumas of the Bombay Blasts and Riots. What can you do to alleviate these people's losses


Mr. Sharad Pawar (Wed Sep 4 20:36:08 1996 IST):

Gunduswamy : Unfortunately what appears in the newspapers in the Sukh Ram case has shocked the whole nation. Nobody will support him. And I am confident that a proper investigation will be there and whosoever is involved such cooruption and misuse their position has to be punished. And cong. party has to disassociate from such person/s and simelataneously there are many cases when wild allegations have been made without basis and excellent example I can give is of myself. There was an allegation against me in the Enron power project by the BJP Shiv Sena in Maharashtra. Sam BJP Shiv Sena CM has given an affidavit in the Bombay High Court 2 days back saying there was no basis about this allegation of corruption in the Enron deal. And we just made this allegation on the basis of some reports in the newspapers.


shail (Wed Sep 4 20:36:53 1996 IST):

Sir, Is there any problem in congress over the leadership issue? Whom do you see as the next leader of the congress party?


niketan (Wed Sep 4 20:38:35 1996 IST):

Sir, What is future plans .


shail (Wed Sep 4 20:38:53 1996 IST):

Sir, Is there any problem in congress over the leadership issue? Whom do you see as the next leader of the congress party?


MarathiManus (Wed Sep 4 20:39:29 1996 IST):

Mr. Pawar I am amazed at your faith in Indian Judiciary. I have yet to come across a single politician who was found guilty of impropritery behaviour and gone to prison or was made to pay a retribution to the people of nation. Please name a single one from last 50 years of commisions appointed and reports submitted. Right from V.K.Menon jeep scandal, Viju Patnaik's dealing and V.P.Naik of Maharashtra and Mr Antulay too.


Paul Allen (Wed Sep 4 20:39:49 1996 IST):

Mr Pawar: Will you support any one from Nehru family if they join poitics? I mean Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi or Priyanka Gandhi?


deshi (Wed Sep 4 20:40:06 1996 IST):

Sharadji, If the Congress is so messed up, will you consider launching a new national party? If so what sort of people will qualify?


Gundaswamy (Wed Sep 4 20:40:20 1996 IST):

Khairnar had a lot to say about you...some time ago. He was reported to have said that Mr. Pawar is one of the richest Politician anywhere with assets over a billion dollars. I hope he knew how may zeros.


vaiju (Wed Sep 4 20:42:24 1996 IST):

Mr Pawar Please break the silence


Balasaheb (Wed Sep 4 20:43:03 1996 IST):

Mr PAWAR : do you see yourself leading the Congress Party and if you do what would your new vision of the party be like?


Aramis (Wed Sep 4 20:43:14 1996 IST):

Good evening Mr Pawar. Isn't it surprising that time after time, top Congress leaders get exposed in scams and the party sanctimoniously expels them. Are we to believe that the Congress hierarchy, for instance, knew absolutely nothing of Sukh Ram's doings when the party was in power?


Manoj Joshi (Wed Sep 4 20:43:16 1996 IST):

Dear Mr. Pawar what do you think for the future of congres party in Maharashtra ? Manoj Joshi


A M Azed (Wed Sep 4 20:44:28 1996 IST):

W


MarathiManus (Wed Sep 4 20:44:50 1996 IST):

Vaiju " Maunam Doortha Lakshanam"


Gundaswamy (Wed Sep 4 20:45:03 1996 IST):

Do you read us, Mr. Pawar??


deshi (Wed Sep 4 20:45:32 1996 IST):

In the Civics and Admn textsin college,we were taught that you had to be an honest and upright person,with no criminal record, must be secular with brotherhood to all Indians. Then how come we have the likes of Thakeray, allowed to even float a party, leave alone be allowed to rule, albeit with a remote control? What,in your opinion will rid us of this disease?


Gundaswamy (Wed Sep 4 20:46:02 1996 IST):

Shall we come back, tomorrow


vaiju (Wed Sep 4 20:46:06 1996 IST):

Marathi Manus, keeping quiet is not a healthy sign of real MARATHI MANUS


MarathiManus (Wed Sep 4 20:47:34 1996 IST):

Some one should keep statistics of this chat number of questions and replies. This one is unique.


shail (Wed Sep 4 20:48:38 1996 IST):

Marathi Manus:Give me your e-mail and I'll send Raj Thackeray after you.


Sharad Pawar, (Wed Sep 4 20:48:52 1996 IST):

Maharashtra govt has appointed a judicial commisione, and the present govt has to take the report and then it has to tak th appropriate decision


Prem Panicker (Wed Sep 4 20:49:11 1996 IST):

Folks, hang on, word is that there was another power off in Delhi but things are okay now, Mr Pawar will be back on in a second...


deshi (Wed Sep 4 20:49:15 1996 IST):

Sharadji, What is your favourite pastime?


Gundaswamy (Wed Sep 4 20:49:51 1996 IST):

Mr. Thackeray apparently has a lot of irons in the fire. And from the run of things it is not difficult to see him spread his wings and use the power "at his beck and call" to rule the roost.


Sharad Pawar, (Wed Sep 4 20:51:27 1996 IST):

Manorj joshi and balasaheb The congreess party has a definitley future for larger interest of nation, congress party has to revive. We have to work very hard, and regain the confidence of the masses. But this is only possible with our actions and hard work. If there is no strong Conmgress for the nation, it will be a major disservice to the nation


MarathiManus (Wed Sep 4 20:51:27 1996 IST):

Mr. Pawar what is the point in appointing judicial commisions if they have no power to punish and their reports are filed. even over ruled. All I need to know is one commission that convicted and punished the guilty or criminal politician just one name please from any state.


deshi (Wed Sep 4 20:52:16 1996 IST):

When do you think the next GEneral Elections will be called? If so for which post will our own Sharadji stand?


vaiju (Wed Sep 4 20:52:33 1996 IST):

Is Mr Thackeray or ENRON behind these repeated power failure in New Delhi?


Prem Panicker (Wed Sep 4 20:52:40 1996 IST):

Mr Pawar: You speak of Congress working hard to revive its lost power and position. Which of the current leaders of your party do you see as heading such a fightback?


shail (Wed Sep 4 20:53:16 1996 IST):

Mr Pawar, I expected you to answer like a man who wants to become prime minister of the country. Please do not obfuscate! I think Bal Thackeray has effectively wiped out the Congress from maharashra. Your enemies in the party say you killed the party too!


Sharad Pawar, (Wed Sep 4 20:53:18 1996 IST):

deshi, that is the reason why we oppose Thackeray tooth and anail. to have a basic rigths and civilised atmosphere, we have to fight with these kind of elements, and day bny day, because of his family members aciton, theytare getting exposed


Jeby (Wed Sep 4 20:54:03 1996 IST):

Mr. Pawar...you have been a champion of economic liberalisation long before it bacame fashionable. As a leading contender for the leadership of the Congress party, you are a heartbeat away from the Prime Ministership. If and when you become the PM, what is your vision for speeding up the reforms ?


deshi (Wed Sep 4 20:54:41 1996 IST):

Marathi Manus, NO power seems to be the key word for today!


Sharad Pawar, (Wed Sep 4 20:54:54 1996 IST):

deshi,. my favourite pasttime is travelling and listening to classical music. I like Bhimsen Joshi and others,


MarathiManus (Wed Sep 4 20:56:32 1996 IST):

Deshi, yes it does. Reagan in USA used to act as if he had hearing difficulty if he did not want to answer a question at whitehouse press conferences.Lack of electricity is a good authentic excuse.


Sharad Pawar, (Wed Sep 4 20:56:51 1996 IST):

marathi manus -- besides punishment,it also exposes the guilty party or leader in the eyes of the people, and the people do take appropirate action and punish them. A commision is not to take aciton but to give findings and the authority has to take the actions


vaiju (Wed Sep 4 20:57:08 1996 IST):

Are you on diet or lossing political weight?


Sharad Pawar, (Wed Sep 4 20:57:43 1996 IST):

Prem Panicker all of together will lead the congress fightback, including myself


deshi (Wed Sep 4 20:57:50 1996 IST):

Which is the most beautiful spot to travel to in Maharashtra according to you


shail (Wed Sep 4 20:58:39 1996 IST):

Mr Pawar, I have always amazed at the manner in which you people-- the so-called rebels -- create a lot of awaaz before a CWC meeting, but keep mum when it comes to the crunch. Why are you so afraid of Mr Rao? What does he have on you?


Gundaswamy (Wed Sep 4 20:58:44 1996 IST):

Mr. Pawar, I play cricket wearing my lungi. Pastime is not the criterion here. We are talking of the nation. Kyo hoga hamaare Bharat desh kaa?


MarathiManus (Wed Sep 4 20:58:48 1996 IST):

Mr. Pawar I agree, indeed! So tell me why does the authority not take any action? What stops the so called " authority " from taking action. Here in US we have jailed some politicians for corruption. Why dont we have a single indian example?


Sharad Pawar, (Wed Sep 4 20:59:18 1996 IST):

desho -- the present parliament will complete its five years. I don't find anybody's interest in elections, so there will be no immediate elections. But whenever elections will come, I will contes for Parliament only.


Sandesh (Wed Sep 4 21:01:14 1996 IST):

Do you think a strong regional leader makes a good national leader? In the sense that Mr Deve Gowda, who was a regional player is now the PM? Do you think this kind of inexperience will benefit the nation? Or do you feel that it would be better if strong regional leaders continue to head the political scene in their respective states and thus lead the nation to prosperity?


shail (Wed Sep 4 21:01:20 1996 IST):

Mr Pawar, will you contest the Congress president's election when the election is due?


Sharad Pawar, (Wed Sep 4 21:01:26 1996 IST):

jeby -- AS an Indian, forget about prime minister or minister, I want India to be a verystrong nation in every field. India has to develop a strong economy, If India has to take a Pragmatic approach in the field of economy, and I will work in this direction


deshi (Wed Sep 4 21:02:55 1996 IST):

What do you forecast as India's role in global affairs in the 21st cent? What hope do you hold out for our future generations?


Sharad Pawar, (Wed Sep 4 21:02:57 1996 IST):

deshi, a numbner of places, especially in the coastal areas, in chandrapur, there are virgin forests, in the deccan, the ghats and the beautiful sahyadris, and what not


Gundaswamy (Wed Sep 4 21:03:35 1996 IST):

Taaliyaan!!!!!! Well said, Mr. Pawar.


Sharad Pawar, (Wed Sep 4 21:04:11 1996 IST):

sahil -- whatever we have to discuss, we always discuss frankly in the CWC, wihout fear. But as a isciplined Congressman, we don't disclose to the media


A M Azed (Wed Sep 4 21:04:41 1996 IST):

Mr Pawar, I am one very hurt Muslim. I think it is very unfortunate that you did not do anythging to protect Muslims when we were being slaughtered during January 1993. There was complete paralysis in Bombay and you did nothing!


MarathiManus (Wed Sep 4 21:04:54 1996 IST):

Mr. Pawar the only act of courage from India I have seen so far is the refusal to sign the CTBT. We have no need to cow down before a bunch of peace preaching crookes who posses the weapons. But the current crop of international scandals makes us look like a bunch of thugh in international business community. Any comments to prevent it?


Mohan (Wed Sep 4 21:05:02 1996 IST):

Mr Pawar who do you hold responsible for the Bombay riots?


A M Azed (Wed Sep 4 21:05:24 1996 IST):

I think there are too many flippant questions being routed to Pawar. We need to put the man on the mat for his record.


Mohan (Wed Sep 4 21:05:39 1996 IST):

Mr Pawar who do you hold responsible for the Bombay riots?


Sharad Pawar, (Wed Sep 4 21:05:40 1996 IST):

marathi manus -- there are cases of politcians being jainled for corruption, one minister in kerala is behnd bars, and there are example like this.


Sandesh (Wed Sep 4 21:06:06 1996 IST):

Do you think a strong regional leader makes a good national leader? In the sense that Mr Deve Gowda, who was a regional player is now the PM? Do you think this kind of inexperience will benefit the nation? Or do you feel that it would be better if strong regional leaders continue to head the political scene in their respective states and thus lead the nation to prosperity?


MarathiManus (Wed Sep 4 21:06:12 1996 IST):

Are we discussing politics or tourism here?


Sharad Pawar, (Wed Sep 4 21:06:26 1996 IST):

shail -- regarding contesting elections, I will disclose at the approprate time


suhail (Wed Sep 4 21:06:32 1996 IST):

sir,what effect you think the sukhram affair will have in the image of the high command since surprisingly the cwc is yet to decide on sukhram?


A M Azed (Wed Sep 4 21:07:15 1996 IST):

Mr pawar, you told someone here that you discuss things frankly in the CWC. I know it for sure that you have not opened your mouth at the last three CWC meetings and people like Pilot are very upset at your leading them on and then not doing anything to speak against Rao.


A M Azed (Wed Sep 4 21:07:55 1996 IST):

marathi Manus: I agree with you. This man is a complete waste of time. He is still acting as if he has got a lot to hide!


Sharad Pawar, (Wed Sep 4 21:08:13 1996 IST):

A M Azad I can appreciate his feelings and anxiety. At that time I was defence minister and my job was to protect the country's borders. Many people feel that I was the chief minister, but I was not the chief minister during the December-January riots after the Babri Masjid demoliton


A M Azed (Wed Sep 4 21:08:31 1996 IST):

marathi Manus: I agree with you. This man is a complete waste of time. He is still acting as if he has got a lot to hide!


MarathiManus (Wed Sep 4 21:08:40 1996 IST):

Mr. Pawar thanks for pointing that Kerala case. I will study that. That must be a new start. I hope we have 10 % success in incarcerating the criminals. I like to keep statistics.


Mr. Sharad Pawar (Wed Sep 4 21:09:03 1996 IST):

Vaijju & Gunduswamy : The cong party is the only party which can keep the country together. There are some setbacks to the party in the last elections. There are some traditional supporters who have kept themselves away from the party and there were some mistakes & misdeeds as well by few indv. Cong.men. But we have to rebuild the party and improve. We have to tkae absolute clear cut stand against corruption and we have to regain the confidence in our traditional supportters. This situation has been faced by theCong before in 77 & 89 when the Cong suffereed sever setbacks. Everybody said that Cing is dead but again leadership succeeded to regain the support of Indian masses. So we have to work very hard. We have to restablish our bonafides and sincerity by action. And rebuild Cong. party. It is alright today.


A M Azed (Wed Sep 4 21:09:08 1996 IST):

Mr pawar, you told someone here that you discuss things frankly in the CWC. I know it for sure that you have not opened your mouth at the last three CWC meetings and people like Pilot are very upset at your leading them on and then not doing anything to speak against Rao.


deshi (Wed Sep 4 21:09:39 1996 IST):

What hope do you and your party hold out for those whose lives were torn asunder during the Bombay riots? Was there any way that all the carnage could have been averted? Please tell us.


Sharad Pawar, (Wed Sep 4 21:10:15 1996 IST):

S M Azad Whenever i was a chief minister, there was no riots, though there was bomb blasts and attempts tocreate riots in the state during my rule as chief minster. Even during the rathyatra of L K Advani, there were riots in many other states other thatn Maharashtra, because I had taken steps to prevent riots I have tried and will try to continously to reestablish the confidence in the minorities through our actions


Mohan (Wed Sep 4 21:10:25 1996 IST):

Mr Pawar: Will you tell me who do u hold responsible for th Bombay riots? Please don't be diplomatic


Gundaswamy (Wed Sep 4 21:11:06 1996 IST):

Guys, my power has gone too, and before I lose my spark, it makes sense to get out of this sham of a chat...what say????????????????


Sharad Pawar, (Wed Sep 4 21:11:33 1996 IST):

suhail sukh ram has already been suspended from the congress party


MarathiManus (Wed Sep 4 21:12:30 1996 IST):

Rediff-on-line thanks for this great opportunity to chat with Mr. Pawar. Thank you Mr. Pawar for your patience in entertaining my questions. Bye Bye.


vaiju (Wed Sep 4 21:12:49 1996 IST):

Mr Pawar, how long you will wait for rehabilitation of the Congress?


A G HAST (Wed Sep 4 21:13:06 1996 IST):

Mr pawar, sorry I had to step out for a while. What is your vision for India?


Mr. Sharad Pawar (Wed Sep 4 21:13:42 1996 IST):

Azed : Yuor inf. is absolutely wrong and I do particpate in the meeting. I do express my frank views.


A G HAST (Wed Sep 4 21:14:12 1996 IST):

Do you foresee a drastic realignment of political forces with the dalits and OBCs rising to the fore in greater numbers? Where would this leave the BJP in your opinion?


deshi (Wed Sep 4 21:14:42 1996 IST):

Sharadji, the reason why we could not vote is that after so many years we found our names missing from the electoral lists despite having ID cards and all. Your party should have ensured that the lists were in order. Names of entire roads in Colaba were simply not there! You lost because those who would have voted congress didn't have a ballot.You should be doubly sure the next time around


Mr. Sharad Pawar (Wed Sep 4 21:14:49 1996 IST):

A G HAST : A strong developed nation in the world.


suhail (Wed Sep 4 21:14:52 1996 IST):

sir do you think the alliance between the ss and the bjp will last in maharashtra for its full term?what is your prediction?


Sandesh (Wed Sep 4 21:16:41 1996 IST):

Mr Pawar, for the third time, do you think a strong regional leader makes a good national leader? In the sense that Mr Deve Gowda, who was a regional player is now the PM. Do you think this kind of inexperience will benefit the nation? Or do you feel that it would be better if strong regional leaders continue to head the political scene in their respective states and thus lead the nation to prosperity?


A Stone (Wed Sep 4 21:16:48 1996 IST):

Mr Pawar, good evening. I am sorry I have logged in late. I am a student of Indian politics and I wondered if you could enlighten me on the future course of Indian politics. Where do you see the alignments forming? I may add that I have great respect for you as a politician.


anand (Wed Sep 4 21:17:03 1996 IST):

Mr. Pawar Sir, congress has been in power for so many years. Yet, why has it not been able to end corruption within it's own party. Is it not a serious enough issue for the congress?


Mr. Sharad Pawar (Wed Sep 4 21:18:40 1996 IST):

deshi : We had taken a campaign for the Id cards. We got a very good response in many areas. But there are mnay areas where photos were taken and ID cards were issued but their names were not in the new list. andhence they cold not get an opportunity to vote.

A G hast : the party is not ready to take all cross sections together irrespective of caste and religion has no future. And if any party wnats to represent a particular section of the society or religion has no future and should not have one. Because the party and the ideology will not be able to keep the country together as a whole.


anand (Wed Sep 4 21:19:21 1996 IST):

Mr. Pawar Sir, do u know the maharani of morvi (vijay)?


deshi (Wed Sep 4 21:19:39 1996 IST):

Sharadji, Will the Congress be able to take us into the 21st CEnt of Rajivji's dreams .....?


N.Sivaramakrishnan (Wed Sep 4 21:20:20 1996 IST):

Mr. Sharad Pawar -My question- What is the rationale behind the congress supporting the UF gov. If the gov. does well Uf stands to gain & if doesnt,Bjp will gain. Where does that leave the Congress???


Sandesh (Wed Sep 4 21:20:33 1996 IST):

Mr Pawar: Why do I have this strange feeling that you are avoiding answering my question? If you are, please let me know so that I can leave. I don't see any point in remaining here if you are going to avoid the difficult question and answer trivial questions on tourist spots in Maharashtra?


s.nair (Wed Sep 4 21:21:03 1996 IST):

Please visit www.infoindia.com


anand (Wed Sep 4 21:21:30 1996 IST):

Mr. Pawar Sir, certainly Mr. Manmohan Singh was a feather in congress cap during it's last tenure. Do you think the party lacks people of his integrity and commitment. If you do, what is the party planning to do about it??


Mr. Sharad Pawar (Wed Sep 4 21:21:53 1996 IST):

Alignment will be a temporary phase for larger interests of the nation we have to build a strong secular democratic Cong. party on the ethos of & values of freedeom meovement. That is the only alternative before the nation And if we are sincere and honest about it we have to provide this alternative which can keep a country together and give a stable progressive and honest govt. who believes in accountability and transparencey.


deshi (Wed Sep 4 21:23:21 1996 IST):

Sir, How many Congressmen are truly transparent?


A Stone (Wed Sep 4 21:23:23 1996 IST):

Mr Pawar, but how do you build a strong Congress party?!


Sandesh (Wed Sep 4 21:23:36 1996 IST):

Mr Pawar, why do you mouth platitudes that you don't even believe in?


Vijay-The Maharani of Morvi (Wed Sep 4 21:24:48 1996 IST):

Hi Sharad


Mr. Sharad Pawar (Wed Sep 4 21:24:48 1996 IST):

Sandesh : The country needs a strong political party who has reached every corner of the country and who has got a clear thinking. And that party can provide a good leadership for the nation. In the present situation, Deve Gowda is the best bet. but regional parties will not resolve the problems of countries.


Sandesh (Wed Sep 4 21:24:50 1996 IST):

Would you call yourself a transparent and honest politician? (Obviously, you are not going to answer this question either.)


Prashant Kacharia (Wed Sep 4 21:25:16 1996 IST):

Dear Mr Pawar, In a metro like Bombay, where property rates are so high and where local builders have resorted to illegal means to vacate the tenanta, don't you think that it is time to enact the Model Rent law (1993)? so as to amke an attempt to bring law and order in the society..


A G HAST (Wed Sep 4 21:26:33 1996 IST):

Why are you so enamoured of prime Minister Deve Gowda? Do I see an alliance brewing?


Prashant Kacharia (Wed Sep 4 21:26:45 1996 IST):

Mr Pawar: What do you suggest about the staggering backlog of law cases in the civil courts in Bombay?


deshi (Wed Sep 4 21:27:00 1996 IST):

Many Muslims I know, feel unsecure ... they feel very betrayed,and are looking for alternatives, has the Congress really felt anything for them,other than vote-banks,that is?


A G HAST (Wed Sep 4 21:27:17 1996 IST):

Would you have arrested Raj Thackeray in the Ramesh KIni affair if you were chief minister? If so, why?>


Mr. Sharad Pawar (Wed Sep 4 21:29:06 1996 IST):

N Siva.: The country was facing destabilty and uncertainty. Because not a single party got clear majority or reached near majority. So there was only one choice. Whether to allow BJP which does not believe in secularism who was having only 195 MP's along with their friends and suppoerters in a house of 525 MP's. It would never have provided stability to the nation. So the choice was to support a front which beleives in some common prog. and will protect the inetrests of every cross sections of the socy. And when the country's interests comes, you do not bother whether Cong will gain or lose.


anand (Wed Sep 4 21:29:38 1996 IST):

Mr. Pawar are you there


Sandesh (Wed Sep 4 21:30:17 1996 IST):

Mr Pawar: I admire the fact that while you were CM of Maharashtra, you did things for this state that no other CM has done. But I wish you wouldn't use phrases like honesty and transparency. Anyone who is honest and transparent cannot survive in Indian politics. They definitely cannot hope to replace Rao as the Congress President. For all you machinations, though, I hope you become the next PM. I think it will do the country some good.


deshi (Wed Sep 4 21:30:50 1996 IST):

What was the real reason that Congress didn't stake a claim to form a Govt?


Mr. Sharad Pawar (Wed Sep 4 21:30:56 1996 IST):

A G Hast : the matter is subjudice so I do not want to give my views.


A Stone (Wed Sep 4 21:31:00 1996 IST):

Do you think India will remain one in 2047? A realistic answer please. What are the three main dangers to indian unity? I would say Islamic fundamentalism, balkanisation and poverty. Would you agree?


Sandesh (Wed Sep 4 21:31:49 1996 IST):

Do you think we need another state viz the PM's announcement about Uttarkhand?


A G HAST (Wed Sep 4 21:32:14 1996 IST):

In which areas does the government need to grow faster in the reforms? Do you think our reforms will always be half-baked?


Mr. Sharad Pawar (Wed Sep 4 21:32:14 1996 IST):

Thank you very much everybody. I really enjoyed this question answer session on the Internet. Good Night!!!


suhail (Wed Sep 4 21:32:43 1996 IST):

sir why is the congress not launching a state wide agitation and stir on the ramesh kinni affair?why is raj not behind bars???


suhail (Wed Sep 4 21:32:48 1996 IST):

sir why is the congress not launching a state wide agitation and stir on the ramesh kinni affair?why is raj not behind bars???


vaiju (Wed Sep 4 21:32:52 1996 IST):

Do you agree the demand made by your supporters in Maharashtra for seperate state of Vidarbha?


A Stone (Wed Sep 4 21:33:12 1996 IST):

It is day here, Mr Pawar. Please, five more questions!


N.Sivaramakrishnan (Wed Sep 4 21:33:25 1996 IST):

Mr. Sharad Pawar:-Thank you.Next ques.- How do you plan to improve the face of the congress after the flow of scams involving top congress leaders ???


A Stone (Wed Sep 4 21:33:33 1996 IST):

FIVE MORE QUESTIONS!


A Stone (Wed Sep 4 21:33:57 1996 IST):

FIVE MORE QUESTIONS! PLEASE!


deshi (Wed Sep 4 21:34:25 1996 IST):

Shbhratri Sharadji!! It was nice chatting with you . Thank you.


anand (Wed Sep 4 21:35:13 1996 IST):

But Mr. Pawar, you didn't tell us about the ex - maharani of morvi.....are we to assume that you do know her then?


Prashant Kacharia (Wed Sep 4 21:35:23 1996 IST):

Mr Pawar please Take FIVE more questions here are two...

In a metro like Bombay, where property rates are so high and where local builders have resorted to illegal means to vacate the tenanta, don't you think that it is time to enact the Model Rent law (1993)? so as to amke an attempt to bring law and order in the society

What do you suggest about the staggering backlog of law cases in the civil courts in Bombay?


N.Sivaramakrishnan (Wed Sep 4 21:35:52 1996 IST):

Thank you Mr.Pawar .Best of Luck!!!


deshi (Wed Sep 4 21:36:27 1996 IST):

Please give a message to the hurt Muslim community


deshi (Wed Sep 4 21:36:27 1996 IST):

Please give a message to the hurt Muslim community


Photographs: Atul Chowdhury

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