As the municipal corporation elections approach in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad, the two factions of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) have decided to join forces. The NCP led by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and the NCP(SP) headed by senior leader Sharad Pawar aim to present a united front, although the specifics of their seat-sharing agreement remain to be fully determined.
Supriya Sule, the Baramati MP and working president of NCP(SP), shared insights regarding the upcoming January 15 elections across Maharashtra in a recent interview. She confirmed that the alliance between the two factions is firmly established, asserting that they are in the process of gathering comprehensive data about the candidate nominations, including the allocation of AB forms to 70 candidates for the 165-member Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC).
When questioned about the origins of the alliance talks, Sule emphasized the importance of moving forward without dwelling on their initiation, asserting that both factions unanimously decided to collaborate. Addressing concerns about potential ramifications of a disappointing electoral performance, she conveyed confidence, stating that there is no room for fear in politics.
The communication between her and Ajit Pawar has improved, a significant change from earlier claims that he was unresponsive to her calls. They are now in constant contact, especially regarding candidate selections. While it remains unclear if the alliance will extend beyond the Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad elections, Sule noted that they are collecting data from across the state to gain clarity.
Sule dismissed speculation regarding a possible merger of the two factions or any alliance with the BJP-led Mahayuti, emphasizing her current focus on the upcoming elections rather than speculative discussions. Notably, despite recent social interactions with prominent industrialist Gautam Adani in Baramati, Sule reinforced that these ties do not sway political dynamics, even as allies in the Maharashtra Vikas Aghadi government, like the Congress Party, continue to express criticism of Adani.
In summary, the NCP and NCP(SP) are intent on collaborating effectively for the municipal elections, while navigating speculations and past grievances, as they prepare for a pivotal moment in Maharashtra’s political landscape. This partnership underlines the importance of unity and concentration on electoral success amidst a backdrop of uncertainty.