Archive · 14 Jan 2026
Pawar alleges irrigation project cost inflated for party funds
Ajit Pawar, who is the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, said that during the first time the Shiv Sena and BJP were in power together, the cost of a big water project was increased.
He said this was done to make extra money for their political parties and for some government workers.
The project was supposed to cost Rs 330 crore, but Pawar said he found out it should only cost Rs 230 crore.
He also said he has the documents that prove this.
The Shiv Sena has asked him to share the details if he is telling the truth.
This is happening before some important local elections in Pune.
Ajit Pawar alleges the cost of the Purandar Lift Irrigation Scheme was inflated to Rs 330 crore during the first Sena-BJP government.
Pawar claims the cost was revised to Rs 230 crore after he cancelled the scheme and ordered a fresh estimate.
He alleges Rs 100 crore was added for party funds and an additional Rs 10 crore for officials.
Pawar says he has the relevant files in his possession but did not pursue the matter further.
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut has dismissed the allegations as blackmail and challenged Pawar to disclose details.
- Who
- Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar
- What
- Alleged inflation of irrigation project cost for party funds
- When
- During the first Sena-BJP government (1995-1999)
- Where
- Pune, Maharashtra
- Why
- To raise party funds and additional funds for officials, according to Pawar
- Project
- Purandar Lift Irrigation Scheme
- Initial Cost
- Rs 330 crore
- Revised Cost
- Rs 230 crore
- Alleged Funds
- Rs 100 crore for party, Rs 10 crore for officials
- Time Period
- 1995-1999 (First Sena-BJP government)
- Current Status
- Ajit Pawar claims to have relevant files
