NCP Foundation Day Celebrations: Sharad Pawar and Ajit Pawar Hold Separate Events

Separate Ceremonies for NCP Foundation Day

Mumbai, June 10: On Tuesday, both Sharad Pawar, the founder of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), and his nephew, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, will host distinct ceremonies in Pune to commemorate the party's foundation day.

Each faction aims to demonstrate its strength following their split and to affirm their commitment to consolidation.

These events are occurring amidst discussions regarding a potential merger or alliance ahead of the upcoming local and civic elections in Maharashtra. Interestingly, both factions have dismissed these merger rumors, asserting that they have developed their own strategies for consolidation.

In his foundation day message, Ajit Pawar encouraged party members to commit to a renewed vision for the comprehensive development of Maharashtra and India, pledging to work towards a sustainable future.

“Congratulations to everyone on the 26th anniversary of the Nationalist Congress Party! In 1999, we established the party, inspired by the ideological legacy of Shiv-Shahu-Phule-Ambedkar and the transformative social politics of the late Yashwantrao Chavan Saheb,” Ajit Pawar stated. Notably, his message, shared on X, did not mention his uncle, Sharad Pawar.

“Over the past 26 years, we have alternated between ruling and opposition roles, significantly impacting the political landscape of Maharashtra and the nation. We will persist in our mission of social and political engagement. On this anniversary, let us resolve to enhance the all-around development of Maharashtra and India, and commit to a sustainable future! Best wishes to all,” he added. Ajit Pawar had previously aligned with the BJP-led Mahayuti in July 2023, winning the party name and clock symbol in a legal dispute.

Meanwhile, NCP(SP) leader Supriya Sule, who won the Baramati Lok Sabha seat against Ajit Pawar’s wife, Sunetra Pawar, emphasized that the party founded by Sharad Pawar has upheld the teachings of Yashwantrao Chavan, the architect of modern Maharashtra.

She remarked that the party has consistently engaged with grassroots communities, advocating for justice for farmers, laborers, women, and youth.

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

“Respected Pawar Saheb planted the seed of nationalist ideology in Maharashtra, which has now flourished into a significant force. Today marks 26 years since this event. As we celebrate the anniversary of our Nationalist Congress Party - Sharadchandra Pawar faction, we take pride in our efforts to amplify the voices of the marginalized and oppressed across the nation, ensuring justice for them. We have embraced the principle of 80 percent social work and 20 percent politics, consistently reaching out to the grassroots,” Sule stated in her post on X.

“The unwavering support and blessings of respected Pawar Saheb are invaluable to us. His thoughts will continue to inspire us. On this anniversary, heartfelt congratulations to everyone who has steadfastly supported us throughout this journey,” Sule concluded.