Maharashtra Dy CM had links with 2G accused’s firm

MUMBAI: Maharashtra deputy CM Ajit Pawar on Wednesday said he had purchased 8,800 AG Mercantile shares in 2005 but sold them later that year. Developer Vinod Goenka allegedly involved in the 2G scam promoted the company.

"The board approved the entire transaction on January 16, 2006," Pawar told TOI. He said he was being targeted for political reasons.

Pawar was also alleged to have favoured the firm in awarding it a contract to develop a piece of land on the old Mumbai-Pune highway. "Our records are clear, my transaction was over in January 2006. AG Mercantile was awarded the contract to develop the area near the Bilavali dam on build, operate and transfer basis after following the due process of law."

Pawar, who earlier held the irrigation portfolio, said the dam was completed in 1974, but the state government took a policy decision to allow a private firm to strengthen it after a part of it was damaged due to leakage. He said the firm was given the right to develop the dam's surrounding areas as a tourist spot in lieu of undertaking the repair work. "We had invited tenders for the project and the highest bidder was awarded the contract. Nothing confidential in the deal, all documents are available."

Pawar said the project work also included an 8,000 sq ft rest house and development of plots and a garden. "The contract was awarded on November 24, 2006. It has completed the work and I am not associated with the project."