The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) marked its 26th Foundation Day on June 10, 2025. However, for the second year in a row, the celebration took place under a shadow of division. Following the 2023 split, the two factions—one led by NCP founder Sharad Pawar and the other by his nephew and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar—held parallel events in Pune, just 10 kilometers apart.

Flag Hoisting Becomes a Symbol of Rivalry

Sharad Pawar, heading the NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar faction or NCP-SCP), hoisted the party flag at the party headquarters in Shivajinagar, Pune. Meanwhile, Ajit Pawar led a massive event at Shivaji Sports Complex, where over 50,000 supporters were expected to gather, turning the event into a grand show of political strength.

Two Celebrations, One Party History

The Nationalist Congress Party was formed on June 10, 1999, when Sharad Pawar parted ways with the Congress over leadership issues. Ajit Pawar, his nephew, played a crucial role in building the party. However, in 2023, internal disagreements led to an official split—resulting in two factions that now function independently and often compete for political dominance.

Sharad Pawar’s Camp Focuses on Legacy and Local Elections

NCP(SP) state president Prashant Jagtap confirmed that Sharad Pawar’s celebration was not only to mark the party’s founding but also to energize workers ahead of the upcoming civic body elections. He noted that it was the first time in 26 years that Pune’s city unit was independently hosting the Foundation Day program.

After the flag hoisting, a meeting was held at Balgandharva Rangmandir to strategize for upcoming challenges and boost morale among the cadre.

Ajit Pawar’s Faction Emphasizes Performance and Strategy

At the Shivaji Sports Complex event, Ajit Pawar’s faction outlined its achievements and discussed future plans, especially with a focus on local civic elections. The show of strength was designed to underline the faction's growing clout and grassroots presence across Maharashtra.

Brief Truce on the Eve of Foundation Day

Interestingly, despite the split, both leaders were seen sharing a stage a day earlier at the Vasantdada Sugar Institute (VSI). The event, centered on the use of artificial intelligence in sugarcane cultivation and factory management, brought the two together briefly—but it did little to mask the underlying political rivalry.

Conclusion: Symbolic Split on a Symbolic Day

The dual celebration of NCP’s foundation day reflects the continued power struggle between uncle and nephew. As both prepare for civic and legislative battles ahead, these parallel events signal a long-term rivalry within a party once seen as united under Sharad Pawar’s leadership.