NCP split: Ajit Pawar expresses confidence as ECI calls both factions for hearing

The ECI told the two NCP sides – led by Sharad Pawar and Ajit Pawar – that since both factions were claiming to be the real NCP, the matter required a “substantive determination” under the rules.

ajit pawar election commission ncp split

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar at a recent road show held at Satara road. (Express file photo by Pavan Khengre)

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A day after the Election Commission of India (ECI) recognised the split in the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and asked both factions to present their claims on October 6, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar – who heads one faction – expressed confidence on Friday that the poll panel will take an appropriate decision in the matter.

“All those who have been called by the ECI will have to present their stand on how they have the right over the party. We will also present our case,” said Ajit, who parted ways from the Sharad Pawar-led NCP and joined the BJP-Shiv Sena (Shinde) government in the state earlier this year.

Ajit said, “The Supreme Court has given powers to the ECI to decide on the claim to the party in the event of a split. They will make an appropriate decision after hearing everyone.” While parting ways, the faction led by Ajit Pawar had claimed the support of a majority of NCP legislators and party office-bearers.

On the other hand, NCP chief Sharad Pawar had asserted that there was no split in the party and only a few leaders had parted ways. He has been touring the entire state to strengthen the NCP’s base ahead of the upcoming elections. The senior Pawar has his daughter and party working president Supriya Sule as well as grandnephew Rohit Pawar on his side, along with other state leaders.

The ECI told the two sides on Thursday that since both factions were claiming to be the real NCP, the matter required a “substantive determination” under Para 15 of the rules.

Ajay Jadhav

Ajay Jadhav is an Assistant Editor at The Indian Express, Pune. With over 22 years of experience in the industry, he is a highly specialized journalist whose work focuses on the intersection of urban infrastructure, governance, and sustainability. Professional Background Role: As Assistant Editor, he plays a key role in the editorial direction of the Pune bureau, specializing in urban policy and its direct impact on citizens. Education: He holds a Master’s degree in Communication and Journalism from Savitribai Phule Pune University and a PG Diploma in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). He also studied at the prestigious Fergusson College. Impactful Reporting: He is credited with research-based articles on conservancy staff (waste workers) that influenced national policy for better working conditions. He is also known for exposing the contrast between high-end infrastructure (like helipads for leaders) and the lack of basic amenities like schools in their home districts. Personal Interests: An avid trekker and sports enthusiast, his personal interest in the outdoors often informs his reporting on environmental protection and sustainable development. Recent Notable Articles (December 2025) His reporting in late 2025 has been dominated by the upcoming January 2026 Civic Polls in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad, and the city's infrastructure boom: 1. Political Analysis (Civic Elections 2026) "Not friendly but a bitter fight lies ahead between BJP and NCP for PMC, PCMC" (Dec 22, 2025): A detailed look at the intense rivalry between the Mahayuti partners as they prepare for the January 15 municipal elections. "Pune civic polls: Big blow to NCP, NCP(SP) as leaders switch to BJP" (Dec 20, 2025): Reporting on high-profile poaching and party-hopping ahead of the elections. "Ajit Pawar's NCP continues domination in Pune, wins 10 of 17 local bodies" (Dec 21, 2025): Analyzing the results of the local self-government body elections as a precursor to the main civic polls. 2. Infrastructure & Urban Development "Looking Ahead at 2026: Pune to see inauguration of much-awaited Hinjewadi to Shivajinagar metro route" (Dec 22, 2025): An "outlook" piece on the critical Metro Line 3 project expected to finish by March 2026. "Building Pune: PMC to construct double-decker bridge over Mula-Mutha River" (Dec 18, 2025): Detailing a major project aimed at easing traffic between Hadapsar and Kharadi. "Condition of highway from Pune to Kolhapur to improve in a year: Gadkari" (Dec 4, 2025): Reporting on the Union Minister’s assurances regarding one of the state's most critical transport corridors. 3. Civic Governance & Environment "Install sensors, LED indicators at construction sites within 15 days: PMC to builders" (Dec 16, 2025): A follow-up to the "Breathless Pune" series, reporting on new mandates for builders to monitor air quality in real-time. "Errors in electoral rolls: PMC corrects data of 92,466 voters" (Dec 16, 2025): Tracking the administrative efforts to clean up the voter lists before the 2026 elections. Signature Style Ajay Jadhav is known for accountability journalism. His work often bridges the gap between high-level policy and the "ground zero" reality of Pune's residents. He is particularly focused on Sustainable Development, ensuring that as Pune grows into a "Bharat Mandapam" style destination (referring to his report on the Lohegaon project), its environmental and social safeguards remain intact. X (Twitter): @ajay_khape ... Read More

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