Ajit Pawar's dig at Maha CM: See beyond own image

In an apparent dig at Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan, Nationalist Congress Party leader Ajit Pawar on Tuesday said that at times those at the helm should see beyond their own "image" and not hesitate in "bypassing" rules in the interest of the common man.

He however, did not name Chavan, who is considered as stickler of rules in administrative decisions.

"One should not think only of one's own image but take an initiative to solve the problems of common man. At times, those holding office have to do this bypassing the rules," the former deputy chief minister said at a convention organised by NCP MP and party boss Sharad Pawar's daughter Supriya Sule.

Asked whether she would like to see Ajit become chief minister after 2014 state Assembly elections, Supriya replied in the affirmative saying, "I love my brother. My blood is thicker than water. We have little time to worry about gossip."

Ajit recently quit amid allegations surrounding him over irregularities in state irrigation projects.

After he stepped down, Ajit embarked on the tour of political stronghold of western Maharashtra launching a veiled attack on Chavan.

Taking an apparent dig at Chavan, Pawar had said, "I give priority to getting work done than protecting my image".

However, Ajit had later clarified saying, "I have not named anyone. I have said that I do not keep work pending and my pace is not tardy."