Ajit Pawar-led faction recognised as ‘real’ NCP; Maha Dy CM might try to take control over party’s headquarters

Ajit Pawar was awarded the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) name and symbol by the Election Commission following disagreements over internal organizational elections. After more than ten hearings spread over six months, the decision was made due to discrepancies in the organizational majority claims made by Sharad Pawar’s faction. In order to comply with election regulations, Sharad Pawar’s faction was granted a special concession that would enable them to submit three preferences to the Commission by February 7, 2024, in order to claim a new political formation.

Along with the majority of NCP MLAs, Ajit Pawar became a part of Maharashtra’s current NDA government in July 2023, taking on the position of deputy chief minister. He resigned as Leader of the Opposition prior to the swearing in of the new Maharashtra government members, CM Eknath Shinde and Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis.  Before the ceremony, Ajit Pawar submitted a list of thirty-five NCP MLAs’ support. His arrival coincided with CM Shinde’s departure from the Shiv Sena, meaning that the state now has two deputy chief ministers.

The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) factional conflict was settled by the Election Commission, which recognized Ajit Pawar’s faction as the official NCP. The group led by Ajit Pawar was given the NCP symbol “Wall Clock.” Ajit Pawar welcomed the decision while Sharad Pawar was given time to come up with a name for his new political organization.

The ruling came after more than ten hearings and several legal tests, such as legislative and organizational majority etc. Ajit Pawar intends to call a meeting of MLAs and ministers from the NCP. The decision made by the Election Commission puts an end to the protracted internal dispute and clarifies the party’s leadership and course.