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NCP likely to go solo in civic polls

Members were urged by Ajit Pawar and NCP state president Sunil Tatkare to remain focused on preparations for the elections. It was stated that attention would be given to Mahayuti’s strategy before the NCP’s final decision on alliances was made.

NCP likely to go solo in civic polls
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Preparations for the upcoming local body elections have been intensified by political parties in Maharashtra, with the BJP and NCP adopting distinct approaches. While the BJP’s plans to contest in alliance with its partners have been highlighted, the Ajit Pawar-led NCP has indicated its readiness to compete independently if necessary.

During a two-day conclave held in Shirdi, senior NCP leader Dilip Walse Patil emphasized that the party’s strategy for the elections would be finalized soon. It was stated that alliances would be welcomed but were not deemed essential. Attention was drawn to the possibility of contesting solo if no agreements were reached. The BJP’s intention to contest along with its allies, including the Shiv Sena and NCP, was reiterated by state party president Chandrashekhar Bawankule. The Mahayuti alliance’s efforts to exploit divisions among opposition parties were noted. The Maharashtra Vikas Aghadi (MVA) was observed to be leaning toward separate contests, with the Shiv Sena (UBT) having already announced plans to compete independently in municipal and district council elections.

The NCP conclave was marked by discussions on future strategies and internal unity. Members were urged by Ajit Pawar and NCP state president Sunil Tatkare to remain focused on preparations for the elections. It was stated that attention would be given to Mahayuti’s strategy before the NCP’s final decision on alliances was made. A significant development was reported with the return of Satish Chavan to the Ajit Pawar-led NCP. Chavan had contested the recent assembly elections from Gangapur under the NCP (SP) banner. His return was welcomed by Ajit Pawar, who reaffirmed the party’s secular ideology. Chavan suggested that workers from both factions of the NCP were keen on unification, and the possibility of reconciliation was hinted at.

The participation of senior leader Chhagan Bhujbal in the conclave, despite earlier dissatisfaction over a missed cabinet position, was seen as a result of persuasion by party leaders. A meeting with Praful Patel was held, although comments on his reported differences with Ajit Pawar were avoided by Bhujbal. Notable by his absence was Food and Civil Supplies Minister Dhananjay Munde, who has been under scrutiny following the arrest of his aide in a criminal case. It was reported that Munde would join the conclave on its second day amidst demands for his resignation from both opposition and Mahayuti allies.

The conclave concluded with a call for humility and focus among party members. The need for organizational strengthening and progressive strategies by 2047 was emphasized by Tatkare. Ajit Pawar’s leadership was encouraged as preparations for local elections were prioritized.

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