Congress Distances Itself from NCP Amid Speculated Pawar Faction Reunion

The Maharashtra Congress has announced its decision to contest the upcoming Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation elections independently on January 15, explicitly distancing itself from the Sharad Pawar-led NCP (SP). This move comes amid persistent reports of potential reconciliation between the rival NCP factions led by Sharad Pawar and his nephew Ajit Pawar. Congress leaders have characterized any prospective alliance between the two Pawar groups as incompatible with the party's core principles.

Congress Legislative Party leader Vijay Wadettiwar strongly criticized the speculated merger, labeling it an "unholy alliance" and asserting that the party would not participate if the factions unite. He insisted that Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar must first resign from the Mahayuti government and sever ties with the BJP before any cooperation could be considered. Wadettiwar emphasized the ideological chasm, noting the contradiction in seeking secular support while remaining aligned with what he described as communal forces at state and central levels.

The Congress leadership reaffirmed its commitment to secular and progressive values, declaring an independent campaign to demonstrate organizational strength in both corporations. This stance reflects broader reservations within the Maha Vikas Aghadi over accommodating Ajit Pawar's faction, particularly given its continued partnership with the ruling BJP-led coalition in the state government.

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NCP (SP) leader Supriya Sule addressed the alliance speculation by clarifying that no formal proposal has been received from Ajit Pawar's group, while distinguishing local body elections from statewide contests. She explained that local polls traditionally allow flexibility for ground-level adjustments to nurture emerging leadership, without imposing rigid party directives typically seen in assembly or parliamentary elections.

The potential NCP reunion has triggered internal dissent, evidenced by the resignation of NCP (SP) Pune city president and former Mayor Prashant Jagtap, who cited irreconcilable ideological differences. Sources indicate his probable shift to the Congress, signaling further realignments as parties finalize strategies ahead of the crucial municipal battles.

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