In a significant setback for Ajit Pawar’s faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), four prominent leaders from Maharashtra’s Pimpri Chinchwad have resigned. This development follows the party’s dismal performance in the recent Lok Sabha elections and suggests a potential realignment of loyalties within the NCP. The leaders are reportedly poised to join Sharad Pawar’s faction later this week.
Among the notable figures who have tendered their resignations are:
Ajit Gavhane, Chief of NCP’s Pimpri-Chinchwad unit
Yash Sane, Chief of Pimpri Chinchwad Students’ Wing
Rahul Bhosale, Former Corporator
Pankaj Bhalekar, Former Corporator
The resignations have been submitted to Ajit Pawar, reflecting internal discontent and a possible shift in allegiance back to Sharad Pawar.
Political realignments
There has been growing speculation that some leaders in Ajit Pawar’s camp are inclined to return to the NCP led by his uncle, Sharad Pawar. Sharad Pawar has expressed willingness to accept leaders who would contribute positively to the party without damaging its image.
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“Those who wanted to weaken the party would not be taken in. But those leaders who would help strengthen the organization and not hurt the image of the party would be taken in,” Sharad Pawar stated last month.
The Pawar family experienced a political split in 2023 when Ajit Pawar rebelled against his uncle and NCP founder Sharad Pawar. This led to the formation of two factions within the NCP. Ajit Pawar allied with the Mahayuti government, led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and was appointed as the Deputy Chief Minister. In contrast, Sharad Pawar remained aligned with the Opposition.
Recent electoral performance
The Lok Sabha elections saw Ajit Pawar’s faction contesting as part of the BJP-led NDA. However, the results were underwhelming, with the faction securing only one seat, Raigad, while Sharad Pawar’s faction managed to win eight seats.
The resignations from key leaders in Pimpri Chinchwad underscore the ongoing challenges and internal divisions within the NCP. As these leaders are expected to join Sharad Pawar’s faction, the move may bolster his position and influence within the party. This realignment could have significant implications for the NCP’s strategy and dynamics in Maharashtra’s political landscape.
