Ajit Pawar claims NCP MLAs support, Sharad Pawar faction disowns them
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Mumbai: In a high-stakes political drama reminiscent of past power struggles, the NCP in Maharashtra is witnessing a heated tussle for control after Ajit Pawar, the nephew of party chief Sharad Pawar, rebelled once again and assumed the role of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister.
The move was met with mixed reactions from the party ranks, sparking speculations of an impending clash within the NCP.
Despite Ajit Pawar's claim of having the support of the majority of the 53 NCP legislators, only 16 or 17 were present when he took oath at the Raj Bhavan, raising questions about the true extent of his backing. Responding swiftly to the challenge, Sharad Pawar appointed his close confidant, Jitendra Awhad, as the new Leader of Opposition in the state Assembly and the NCP Chief Whip, signalling his determination to take on the rebellious faction.
Awhad dismissed Ajit's claims, asserting that Sharad Pawar remains the only true leader of the NCP. He challenged Ajit's motives, pointing out that the same leader was previously blamed for the downfall of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government, an alliance between the NCP, Shiv Sena, and Congress. Now, however, Ajit and the opposing side are seemingly reconciling, leaving the party workers questioning the credibility of both factions.
In a strategic move to address the rising turmoil, Sharad Pawar revealed his plan to seek the mandate of the people directly. He emphasized his faith in the people of the state and the youth, intending to take the battle to the public sphere and avoid legal confrontations.
Observers within the party predict an inevitable escalation of tensions, as both sides vie for recognition as the legitimate NCP. Party leaders fear that this internal strife may dent the party's prospects in upcoming elections, with loyal party workers potentially grappling with confusion and divided loyalties.
Ajit Pawar's decision to align the NCP with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Shiv Sena further adds fuel to the fire, intensifying the clash within the alliance. Meanwhile, Congress Chief Nana Patole downplayed the situation, asserting that the NCP's internal rift wouldn't adversely affect the MVA.
The unfolding power struggle has placed the NCP in a precarious position, leaving its future uncertain. As the party prepares for upcoming elections, the battle for control and dominance threatens to overshadow its political agenda and create uncertainty among its supporters and allies.