Sharad Pawar shuns ageist comment, ‘Not old, can still straighten some people…’

livemint.com:

Sharad Pawar took a swipe at his age critics on Sunday, saying that he had not grown old and still had the power to "straighten some people out." Pawar was speaking at a bullock cart race programme organised on the occasion of his birthday in Haveli taluka of Pune's rural part. Addressing the crowd, Sharad Pawar said, "I have a complaint with you people. You people often comment on my age that I am 84 years old, I am 83 years old, what have you people seen in me till now? I have not become old.

I still have so much strength in me. I can straighten some people out." Pawar also spoke about the bullock cart racing event, saying that it could be included in the Olympics if planned decisions are taken. "This event is a competition of speed, strength and determination.

If planned decisions are taken, then I am confident that this event can be brought to par with many other sporting events in the world, and you (bullock cart racing organisers) are doing other work as well," he added. His statement is seen as a clear rebuttal to his opponents, who have often targeted him for his age and called for his retirement from politics. Notably, his nephew, Ajit Pawar, has made similar comments in the past.

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar took a jibe at Sharad Pawar on July 5 and said that IAS officers retire at 60, BJP leaders retire at 75, and you are 83, Are you not going to stop? "You portrayed me as a villain in front of everyone. I still have deep respect for him (Sharad Pawar)...But you tell me, IAS officers retire at 60...even in politics - BJP leaders retire at 75. You can see the example of LK Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi...That allows the new generation to rise..." said Ajit Pawar.