Nana Patole is a significant political figure in Maharashtra, and his political journey is marked by struggle and versatility. From being an independent MLA to serving as the state president of Congress and the Speaker of the Assembly, he has held various positions. He has consistently raised his voice on issues concerning farmers, rural problems, and social justice.
Nana Patole's political journey began as an independent MLA. Notably, in his early days, he contested elections as an independent candidate and won. This showcased his political strength and leadership capabilities. During his time as an independent, he focused on the issues faced by the people in his constituency, particularly emphasizing farmers' problems.
Throughout his political career, he has continually fought for the rights of farmers and worked to improve their living standards. The issues faced by farmers have remained at the core of his political agenda, which is why he is held in high regard within the farming community. From the very beginning, Nana Patole's thoughts and actions regarding farmers' issues have been solid and aggressive. He has frequently raised his voice in Parliament, the Assembly, and various platforms to improve farmers' living conditions. He has consistently stood firm on issues such as loan waivers for farmers, minimum support prices, and reforms in the agricultural sector. According to him, farmers are the backbone of the country, and their rights, security, and economic stability are essential for national progress.
After starting his political journey as an independent leader, Nana Patole joined the Congress Party and continued his political career according to its policies. He became known as an active and dedicated leader within Congress. His tenure in Congress was filled with numerous social and political movements. By winning elections on a Congress ticket, he earned the trust of the people.
Due to the growing influence of the BJP, Nana Patole joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2014. However, after a few years, he resigned from the BJP due to disagreements over farmers' issues. When leaving the BJP in 2017, he expressed dissatisfaction with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's policies. He decided to distance himself from the BJP because of their neglect of farmers' problems and failure to find appropriate solutions. According to him, central government policies were exacerbating farmers' issues. This is why he showed the courage to leave the party, a decision that was widely praised by the farming community.
Assembly Speaker Position
After the Maha Vikas Aghadi government was formed in 2019, Nana Patole was elected as the Speaker of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly. During his tenure as Speaker, he made several important decisions and ensured the smooth functioning of the Assembly. His efficiency and leadership qualities brought him success in this role. During this time, he played a significant role in Maharashtra's politics. Notably, issues like loan waivers for farmers, fair prices for crops, and their welfare remained central to Nana Patole's politics. Even after returning to Congress, he continued fighting for farmers' rights. While serving as Speaker of the Assembly and later as president of Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee, he consistently prioritized programs and policies aimed at farmer welfare.
President of Maharashtra Pradesh Congress
In 2021, Nana Patole was elected president of the Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee. Upon taking this position, he initiated various programs to strengthen party organization. His anti-BJP stance and firm position on issues concerning farmers and labourers significantly increased his popularity. Even today, he raises his voice on various issues across the state under Congress' leadership. Furthermore, during the farmer protests central government agricultural laws in 2020-21, Nana Patole openly supported them. He believed these laws were against farmers and would place them under market pressure. For Patole, this movement symbolized farmers’ rights; therefore, he went to Delhi to stand with them openly.
A New Development Model for East Vidarbha: Nana Patole
Nana Patole's political journey symbolizes struggle and success. His leadership reflects the impact of changing political environments. His progress from an independent MLA to president of Maharashtra Pradesh Congress and Speaker of the Assembly is remarkable. His commitment to farmers' issues and insistence on social justice set him apart from other leaders.