Maharashtra witnessed a major political development as Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar announced that his faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) will ally with the Sharad Pawar-led NCP (SP) for the Pimpri‑Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) elections scheduled on January 15, 2026. Ajit Pawar described the move as the “parivar (family) coming together” after years of differences.
The alliance reunites the two rival NCP factions: Ajit Pawar’s group, which uses the ‘clock’ symbol, and the Sharad Pawar faction, contesting under the ‘tutari’ (trumpet) symbol. The split occurred in 2023 when Ajit Pawar broke away to align with the ruling coalition in the state, leading to separate party structures.
Ajit Pawar highlighted that the alliance is aimed at presenting a united front and focusing on civic issues like urban development, public services, and governance rather than internal conflicts. He said candidates from both factions would soon be announced, with seat-sharing arrangements to follow.
Party workers were urged to remain disciplined and committed, with Ajit Pawar stressing that cooperation between the factions would strengthen NCP’s prospects against rival parties in Pimpri‑Chinchwad. The move is seen as a strategic effort to consolidate support in one of Maharashtra’s key urban centres.
While the alliance has been confirmed for the Pimpri‑Chinchwad polls, discussions for a similar partnership in Pune Municipal Corporation elections are ongoing. Party leaders are evaluating seat distribution and electoral strategy for the larger civic polls.
The civic elections form part of Maharashtra’s broader municipal election schedule, covering 29 municipal corporations, with results to be declared on January 16, 2026. Observers see the reunited NCP as a strong contender in Pimpri‑Chinchwad, potentially reshaping local political dynamics ahead of the upcoming state and national elections.
