Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. (PTI/File)

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and NCP leader Ajit Pawar on Sunday responded to his heavily criticised remarks linking development funds to voter support in Malegaon, saying the statement was “not a threat."

During campaigning for the Malegaon Nagar Panchayat elections on Friday, Pawar had told voters, “I will ensure there is no shortage of funds if you elect all 18 NCP candidates. If you elect all 18 candidates, I am committed to give whatever I have promised. But if you reject, I will also reject. You have votes, I have funds."

The comment drew sharp criticism from opposition leaders, who accused him of attempting to influence voters using government resources.

Asked about the backlash on Sunday, Pawar said, “How is it a thr

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