Political Controversy Erupts Over Missing Images at NCP Event in Maharashtra

A political storm has erupted in Maharashtra following an NCP event where images of the late Ajit Pawar and Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar were conspicuously absent from a poster. This oversight has led to accusations from party members, particularly from Rohit Pawar, who claims attempts are being made to undermine his aunt's leadership. Aditi Tatkare, involved in the event, has apologized for the mistake, emphasizing the importance of loyalty to the party's leaders. The incident highlights how minor errors can escalate into major political issues, prompting discussions about party dynamics and leadership struggles. Read on to discover more about this unfolding controversy.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 30, 2026, 16:00 IST

Political Fallout from NCP Event in Maharashtra

A recent event organized by the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) in Maharashtra has sparked significant political controversy due to the absence of images of the late Ajit Pawar and Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar on a poster. This incident occurred on March 27 during a ceremony honoring newly elected district council and panchayat committee members in Raigad district, which was attended by the state NCP chief Sunil Tatkare. The banner featured only Tatkare, his daughter, Minister Aditi Tatkare, and his brother Aniket Tatkare, while omitting Ajit Pawar, who tragically lost his life in a plane crash earlier this year. Two legislators from the faction led by Sharad Pawar quickly pointed out this oversight.

Rohit Pawar, a member of the NCP (SP) faction and nephew of Ajit Pawar, accused Sunil Tatkare and Praful Patel of attempting to seize control of the NCP from his aunt, Sunetra Pawar. He shared an image of the controversial banner on social media, likening the situation to a landlord secretly claiming tenants' land, emphasizing that this exemplifies the issues they have repeatedly discussed.

In response to the allegations, Aditi Tatkare expressed regret for the oversight, stating that such events are organized by party workers. She emphasized that both Ajit and Sunetra hold a special place in their hearts, and loyalty should not be judged solely based on the images displayed on the banner.

Aditi further remarked that this incident has highlighted how minor mistakes at local events can be escalated into significant issues. She speculated on the regret of those who enjoy bringing such matters to light, especially regarding criticisms of Ajit Pawar while he was alive. Other NCP leaders dismissed these accusations as crocodile tears and advised Rohit Pawar to focus on managing his party.