Ajit Pawar Announces Alliance Between NCP Factions for Upcoming Civic Elections

Mumbai:
In a significant political development ahead of the 2026 civic elections, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Tuesday announced an alliance between the two factions of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) — his group and the Sharad Pawar-led faction — for upcoming municipal body polls, including the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).

Speaking to the media, Ajit Pawar said the decision was taken in the interest of strengthening the party at the grassroots level and avoiding a split in votes during crucial local body elections. He added that discussions between leaders of both factions had been ongoing and consensus was reached on contesting civic polls together. The alliance marks a notable shift in Maharashtra’s political landscape, especially after the NCP split in 2023, which saw Ajit Pawar join the BJP-led Mahayuti government while Sharad Pawar retained control over a separate faction. Since then, the party has fought several elections separately, often dividing its traditional vote base.

Political observers believe the move is aimed at regaining lost ground in urban local bodies, where the NCP has struggled in recent years. With civic elections expected across major cities, including Mumbai, Thane and Pune, the alliance could alter electoral equations and impact seat-sharing talks with other parties. Sources within the party said coordination committees would soon be formed to finalise candidate selection and campaign strategy. However, clarity on how the alliance will function alongside existing alliances at the state level is still awaited.

The announcement has triggered reactions across the political spectrum, with opposition leaders calling it a “compromise move” driven by electoral pressure, while party insiders describe it as a practical step to consolidate strength at the local level.