Pune: Thackeray and Pawar Families Should Reunite for Public Welfare, Says Raju Shetty
Pune, 22nd April 2025: Farmer Leader and Swabhimani Shetkari Saghtana Raju Shetty emphasised that political alliances should prioritise the welfare of the people rather than personal gain. Commenting on the ongoing speculation about the merger of political figures Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray, as well as the Ajit Pawar and Sharad Pawar factions, Shetty stated that mere meetings do not signify ideological change, but if leaders unite for the public interest, it is a positive development that deserves support.
Shetty also addressed pressing issues related to sugarcane farmers during a recent meeting with the Sugar Commissioner in Pune, highlighting the urgent need for the implementation of the Bombay High Court’s directive for one-time full payments of Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) dues. He condemned the practice of sugar mills delaying payments and urged the use of technology, including AI, to prevent losses incurred by farmers due to improper cane cutting by factories. Shetty demanded swift clearance of pending FRP payments, warning that failure to do so could provoke farmer protests.
On the political front, Shetty clarified that the third front alliance formed previously was strictly for election purposes and that his organisation remains focused on farmers’ welfare. Future alliances will be considered based on their benefit to the farming community.
