In a significant political development, Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction) chief Sharad Pawar delivered a pointed message during a rally at Pimpri Chinchwad, where he addressed party workers amid ongoing speculation regarding a possible reunion between the two factions of the NCP.

Sharad Pawar’s Veiled Attack on Ajit Pawar

Without naming his nephew Ajit Pawar, who split from him in July 2023 and aligned with the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance, Sharad Pawar criticised politicians who ally with the BJP solely for power. In his speech, he noted that it is unacceptable to encourage the politics of opportunism, and drew a clear ideological line between those who support progressive, secular values and those who merely seek political gains.

Ideological Clarity: Who is Welcome and Who is Not

During his address, Sharad Pawar said, "There is no problem in taking everyone along, but who is everyone?", clearly suggesting that not all former members or political figures would be welcome back into his fold. He elaborated that he is open to working with individuals who believe in the ideology of Gandhi, Nehru, Jyotiba Phule, and B R Ambedkar, and those who remain committed to social justice and inclusive governance.

He continued:

"If someone is going with the BJP for power, then it is not the ideology of Congress. One may align with anyone but siding with BJP cannot be in sync with the Congress ideology."

This statement clearly implies his disapproval of Ajit Pawar’s decision to split from the party and align with the BJP and Shiv Sena under the Mahayuti coalition.

Background of the NCP Split

The NCP faced a major split in July 2023 when Ajit Pawar, along with a significant number of MLAs, broke away from the party’s main fold and joined the Eknath Shinde-led Maharashtra government. Ajit was appointed Deputy Chief Minister, and eight other NCP leaders were given ministerial positions.

This caused a vertical split in the NCP, eventually leading to Sharad Pawar losing the official party name and symbol, a move that symbolised the end of his long control over the party he founded in 1999 after breaking away from the Indian National Congress.

Rumours of Reunification and Sharad Pawar’s Response

In recent weeks, speculation had been building about a possible merger between the two factions of the NCP as Sharad and Ajit Pawar appeared together at several public events, fuelling rumours of reconciliation.

However, Sharad Pawar’s latest speech has effectively quashed any immediate possibility of such a merger, especially if it involves compromising on core ideological principles. His statements clearly suggest that any return to the party fold would require ideological alignment, not just political convenience.

Politics of Opportunism Not Acceptable

Sharad Pawar emphasised that aligning with the BJP merely for power is not compatible with the values of Congress, which historically stood for secularism, inclusiveness, and welfare policies. This statement acts as a rebuke to those who joined BJP alliances for ministerial berths or electoral advantage, most notably Ajit Pawar and his faction.

This message is also likely aimed at party workers and the public, to ensure clarity and commitment to ideological politics, particularly as Maharashtra heads toward local body and Assembly elections.

Reassurance to Loyal Supporters

Sharad Pawar used the occasion to reassure his supporters and asked them not to worry about those who have left. Emphasising his vast political experience, he said:

"I have seen such developments on several occasions in my career."

This shows confidence in the resilience of his party’s core ideology and belief in the electorate, especially those who trust in values-based politics.

Trust in People Over Politicians

A powerful message in his speech was that India’s democracy thrives not because of leaders but due to the political consciousness of the people. He praised the common people for upholding democratic values, suggesting that it is public awareness, not political alliances, that determines the health of democracy.

This statement works as both a philosophical insight and a political weapon, countering those who argue that coalition-building is a necessity for political survival.

Implications for Maharashtra Politics

The implications of Sharad Pawar’s comments are far-reaching:

• The possibility of NCP (SP) and Ajit Pawar's NCP merging has been significantly diminished

• Sharad Pawar is drawing a clear ideological line, trying to redefine the party’s identity post-split

• The remarks are also likely to influence voter perception, particularly those who see opportunism as a betrayal of public trust

It also places the Ajit Pawar faction in a complex situation. While Ajit continues as Deputy CM and an integral part of the Mahayuti government, his public image as a turncoat is being constantly reinforced by his uncle’s consistent ideological stand.

NCP (SP)’s Electoral Trajectory

Initially, after the split, the NCP (SP) seemed to recover quickly, showing strength during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, especially in Western Maharashtra and parts of Marathwada.

However, the momentum was short-lived as the party faced setbacks in subsequent Assembly segments, showing that while the emotional appeal of Sharad Pawar remains, organisational strength and grassroots machinery are equally important in sustaining electoral victories.

This speech could be part of an effort to re-energise the cadre, ensure ideological clarity, and prepare for local body elections, which are often the testing ground for future political alignments.

Looking Ahead

Sharad Pawar’s address clearly signals that he is not interested in short-term political gains, and will continue to fight based on ideology and people’s support. His legacy as one of Maharashtra’s most astute politicians depends on how he navigates these critical pre-election months.

The real test will come in upcoming local body elections, where the strength of party infrastructure, voter connect, and ideological messaging will be tested.

At the same time, Ajit Pawar’s challenge remains significant. His current political position ensures power within the government, but his long-term political survival will depend on public perception, intra-NDA dynamics, and whether he can build a sustainable identity separate from Sharad Pawar’s shadow.

In sum, Sharad Pawar’s speech has realigned the conversation—from merger talks to ideological reaffirmation. As Maharashtra moves closer to its next electoral cycle, the battle will be not just for seats, but also for the soul of the Nationalist Congress Party.

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