Pune is bracing for a heated municipal election on January 15, 2026, and the political landscape is witnessing a significant shift with the Pawars seemingly reuniting to reclaim their stronghold. The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), which experienced a split in 2023, is showing signs of a rapprochement between the factions led by uncle Sharad Pawar and nephew Ajit Pawar. This development could significantly alter the dynamics of the upcoming Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) elections.
The reunion, though not yet formalized, is generating considerable buzz and speculation. NCP (Sharad Pawar) Spokesperson Ankush Kakade confirmed the alliance was in the works, noting that seat-sharing discussions were yet to be held. He also indicated that talks with other partners, including Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT), would occur to devise a seat-sharing formula. Supriya Sule, working president of NCP (SP), has stated that her party won't form an alliance with Ajit Pawar-led NCP for the Pune civic polls until all the doubts and apprehensions of her party workers are addressed. She has also stated that discussions are underway and that efforts are being made to include the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) under the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) for the elections.
This potential alliance marks a major turn in Maharashtra politics, being the first time both NCP factions may contest an election together since Ajit Pawar's breakaway in 2023. While Sharad Pawar has remained publicly silent on these developments, sources indicate that leaders from both factions have been engaged in informal discussions.
Recent local body elections across the Pune district have underscored Ajit Pawar's continued dominance. The Ajit Pawar-led NCP won 10 out of 17 municipal president posts, demonstrating a strong grassroots presence. In Baramati, the NCP secured a sweeping victory, winning 35 out of 41 seats. These results have been interpreted as a litmus test for the upcoming PMC elections, suggesting that the NCP (Ajit Pawar) remains a force to be reckoned with in Pune.
However, challenges remain. Prashant Jagtap, the Pune City President of the NCP (Sharad Pawar faction), has recently resigned from his post, creating uncertainty about the party's direction. Jagtap cited "personal confusion" and continuous speculation surrounding the party's strategy as reasons for his decision, though he affirmed his unwavering loyalty to Sharad Pawar. His resignation is a setback for the NCP (Sharad Pawar) faction, particularly with the PMC elections on the horizon.
The PMC elections are crucial, with polls to be held on January 15 and counting on January 16. Supriya Sule has emphasized the need for unity within the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) and has appealed to the Congress party for a joint contest. She has also raised concerns about Pune's development, questioning the current administration's performance on issues such as traffic, water supply, and pollution.
As the election draws closer, all eyes are on the Pawar family and whether they can successfully consolidate their political influence in Pune. The reunion of the NCP factions, if it materializes, promises to reshape the political landscape and set the stage for a high-stakes battle for control of the Pune Municipal Corporation.
