Ajit avoids controversy on why both NCPs foundation day on June 10

The NCP will celebrate its foundation day at the Sports complex in Balewadi, while NCP (SP) will celebrate it at Balgandharva Rangmandir.

The state NCP ruled out the merger of the two NCPs. “In the NCP led by Ajit Pawar, we have collectively taken the decision to join the NDA. There is no question of a merger of the two NCPs but those accepting our decision can join us,” said state NCP chief Sunil Tatkare.

He said there had been several discussions in the NCP about the party joining with the BJP, but it did not happen until the party leaders under Ajit Pawar took the decision.

“It was proven in assembly elections that the leadership of Ajit Pawar has been accepted by the voters. We have high hopes in the forthcoming civic polls,” said Tatkare, adding there has been no discussion or any proposal on a merger of the NCPs.

He said the decision on a pre-poll alliance for the civic body elections will depend on the local political scenario. “The alliance will be based on local political situations, but it is clear that the Mahayuti alliance is firm and strong so there will be no decision during civic polls which would increase between the alliance partners,” said Tatkare.

Speaking about NCP’s image taking a beating after former Pune NCP chief was booked for cheating and a former party leader arrested in an alleged dowry death case, the state NCP chief said the criminals are not identified by religion or political party and they should be punished. “We will urge our party workers to stay away from criminal activities,” he said.