How are NCP factions demonstrating their strengths on Foundation Day?

Mumbai, June 10 (NationPress) - The founder of the NCP, Sharad Pawar, alongside his nephew, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, is preparing to commemorate the party's foundation day with distinct ceremonies in Pune this Tuesday. Each faction aims to highlight their individual strengths following the party's division while emphasizing their commitment to unity.

These events are unfolding amidst discussions surrounding a potential merger or alliance in anticipation of the upcoming local and civic body elections in Maharashtra. Notably, both the Sharad Pawar-led NCP and the Ajit Pawar-led NCP have dismissed these speculations; instead, they assert that they have delineated their unique strategies for consolidation.

In his foundation day address, NCP national president and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar urged party members to unite with unwavering resolve to contribute to the comprehensive development of both Maharashtra and India in the future, pledging to pursue a sustainable path.

“Warmest congratulations to everyone on the 26th anniversary of the Nationalist Congress Party! In 1999, inspired by the ideological legacy of Shiv-Shahu-Phule-Ambedkar and the progressive vision of the late Yashwantrao Chavan Saheb, we established the Nationalist Congress Party,” Ajit Pawar stated, notably omitting his estranged uncle's name in his message shared on X.

“Over the past 26 years, we have alternated between ruling and opposition roles, making impactful contributions and injecting new vigor into the political landscape of both Maharashtra and the nation. Our commitment to people-centric social and political initiatives will continue unabated. On this anniversary, let us pledge with strong determination to redefine the all-encompassing development of Maharashtra and India, and commit to a sustainable future! Once again, best wishes to all,” Ajit Pawar remarked. He had previously allied with the BJP-led Mahayuti in July 2023, successfully securing the party name and clock symbol through legal means.

Conversely, NCP(SP) leader Supriya Sule, who emerged victorious from the Baramati constituency in the Lok Sabha elections against Ajit Pawar's wife, Sunetra Pawar, reiterated that the party founded by Sharad Pawar has upheld the teachings of the late architect of modern Maharashtra, Yashwantrao Chavan.

She emphasized that adhering to this ideology, the party has consistently engaged with grassroots communities. The dedicated members of the nationalist ideology are perpetually prepared to ensure justice for diverse societal segments, including farmers, laborers, women, and youth.

In her message, Sule extended her best wishes to the people, workers, leaders, office-bearers, and public representatives who have steadfastly supported the party throughout its journey.

“The esteemed Pawar Saheb nurtured the seed of nationalist ideology in the prestigious land of Maharashtra, which has now flourished into a powerful banyan tree. Today marks the completion of 26 years since this pivotal event. As we commemorate the anniversary of our Nationalist Congress Party - Sharadchandra Pawar faction, we take immense pride in our efforts to amplify the voices of the marginalized, deprived, and oppressed individuals across the country, securing justice for them. We have embraced the lesson imparted by the late Yashwantrao Chavan Saheb, prioritizing 80 percent social work and 20 percent politics. This ideology drives us to connect with the grassroots populace. We, as advocates of nationalist ideology, are always poised to deliver justice to various societal segments, including farmers, laborers, women, and youth,” Sule stated in her post on X.

“The unwavering support and blessings of the respected Pawar Saheb are invaluable to us. The strength of his thoughts will always inspire us. On this anniversary, I extend heartfelt congratulations to the people, workers, leaders, office-bearers, and public representatives who have stood by us throughout this journey,” Sule concluded.