‘They love some people’: Sharad Pawar’s swipe at Centre over tax notice

New Delhi: Nationalist Congress President (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar on Tuesday took a dig at the Centre over tax notices issued to him and 3 minister of Maharashtra government.

“They (the Centre) love us from among all the members,” said the seasoned politician, replying to question of media persons.

Not just Pawar but Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, Maharashtra Minister Aaditya Thackeray, and NCP MP Supriya Sule have also received notice from the Income Tax department, seeking clarification on their poll affidavits filed in previous elections.

Pawar told the media that the Income Tax department has sought “clarification and explanation” on some poll affidavits furnished by him.

“I got the notice yesterday… We are happy that they (the Centre) love us from among all the members…The notice was served by Income Tax after the Election Commission asked (it) to… We will reply to the notice,” he said.

Pawar also made light of reports about moves for imposing the President’s rule in Maharashtra. “Is there any reason for (imposing the Presidents rule)? Is the President’s rule some joke? he said, adding the ruling Maha Vikas Aghadi combine enjoys a clear majority in Maharashtra Assembly.

The NCP leader and Maratha strongman also said that he will observe fast for a day to show support to the eight suspended Rajya Sabha MPs.

“I will also take part in their (eight suspended Rajya Sabha MPs) movement. I will fast for a day to show support,” said Pawar.

The eight MPs from the Upper House were suspended by Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venakaiah Naidu on Monday over the ruckus created on Sunday while discussions were underway on the agriculture reform Bills.

Slamming the passage of farm bills in the House, Pawar called Deputy Chairman Harivansh’s behaviour objectionable and added it does not suit the reputation of the Upper House.

“I have decided not to have food today [Tuesday] to express my support for the eight members of Rajya Sabha. The members wanted a proper discussion on the farm bills but the deputy chairman chose to pass them without discussion and that too with a voice vote,” he said.

“I have never seen such a behaviour by a presiding officer in any of the Houses where I have been a member for 50 years,” he said.