The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) is a state party in India, formed on June 10, 1999, by Sharad Pawar, P. A. Sangma, and Tariq Anwar after their expulsion from the Indian National Congress (INC) over a dispute regarding Sonia Gandhi's leadership. Despite their disagreement with the INC, the NCP joined the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) at both the state and national levels. The party emphasizes "holistic democracy," "Gandhian secularism," and "federalism based national unity."
However, in 2023, the NCP experienced a split, leading to the formation of two factions. The Ajit Pawar-led faction retained the original party name and symbol and joined the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), while Sharad Pawar formed a new party called the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar). Despite the split, the NCP is recognized as a state party in Maharashtra, Nagaland, and Kerala, holding significant representation in the Maharashtra State Legislative Assembly with 41 out of 288 seats. It also has a presence in Nagaland (7 out of 60 seats) and Jharkhand (1 out of 81 seats).
This Special Report hosted by Rajdeep Sardesai examines the significant political shift in Maharashtra following the death of Nationalist Congress Party leader Ajit Pawar in a plane crash. His widow, Sunetra Pawar, has been sworn in as the state’s first woman Deputy Chief Minister, a move occurring three days after the tragedy. While the NCP leadership attributes this appointment to public sentiment, family patriarch Sharad Pawar and various critics have raised questions regarding transparency and the timing of the elevation. The programme features analysis from Sahil Joshi and Rohit Sandhavarkar on whether Sunetra Pawar can maintain independent control or if she will be influenced by senior leaders like Praful Patel. Concurrently, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has assumed the finance and planning portfolios, consolidating BJP influence within the Mahayuti coalition. The discussion explores the historical context of political legacies, the internal dynamics of the Pawar family, and the administrative challenges facing the new Deputy Chief Minister in Maharashtra’s evolving political landscape.
This special report examines the evolving political landscape in Maharashtra following a high-profile meeting at Sharad Pawar's Baramati residence on 17th January. The report highlights that while the Sharad Pawar faction views a potential NCP reunion as 'Ajit Dada's last wish', the rival faction has officially denied any such merger talks. The transcript reveals that a tentative date of 12th February had been set for the merger before the sudden demise of Ajit Pawar. Furthermore, the Pawar patriarch expressed surprise regarding the elevation of Sunetra Pawar to the post of Deputy Chief Minister, stating he was unaware of the development. The programme features insights into the discussions involving senior leaders like Supriya Sule and explores whether the two factions will reconcile or continue to drift apart. As the political drama unfolds, the future of the Nationalist Congress Party remains uncertain amidst conflicting claims from both sides of the Pawar family.
On this Special Report, the focus is on the intensifying political drama within the Pawar family following Sunetra Pawar's oath-taking ceremony as the Deputy Chief Minister. The Unidentified speaker reports that Supriya Sule, Sharad Pawar, and Rohit Pawar were notably absent and uninvited to the ceremony. When questioned about the development, Supriya Sule repeatedly responded with 'Ram Krishna Hari', choosing to remain silent on the family's political shift. The Unidentified speaker noted, 'She just said Ram Krishna Hari That's how she concluded and she avoided to speak over it.' The report highlights a meeting between Sule and Ajit Pawar's mother, Asha Tai, in Kathewadi shortly before the ceremony. Despite the family interactions following the reported passing of Ajit Pawar, the political divide remains prominent. The programme explores the uncertainty surrounding the leadership of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and the ongoing disagreement expressed by Sharad Pawar regarding these fast-moving political developments.
On this Special Report, Sneha Koshy discusses the escalating tensions within the Pawar family following Sunetra Pawar's appointment as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra. The transcript highlights a significant rift, with Sharad Pawar stating, 'I wasn't even consulted, this is a decision that the party has taken internally about Sunetra Pawar taking over.' This development follows the sudden vacancy in the role and has sparked intense speculation regarding a potential merger between the rival NCP factions. Senior leader Chhagan Bhujbal addressed the timing of the move, remarking that 'there was no hurry' and that the decision was a matter of opinion. The programme examines the existential crisis facing both factions and the internal dynamics of the Nationalist Congress Party as they navigate this leadership transition. Sneha Koshy and colleagues explore whether the two sides can achieve longevity through a possible reunion amidst the current political vacuum.
Emotional scenes were witnessed at the Lok Bhavan as Nationalist Congress Party leaders raised slogans of “Ajit dada amar rahe” after Sunetra Pawar, leader of the NCP legislative party and wife of late Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, took oath as Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister. Party leaders and workers chanted in memory of Ajit Pawar, recalling his political legacy, as Sunetra Pawar assumed office amid a charged atmosphere marked by grief, loyalty and political continuity within the party.
On this special report, the focus is on the major political transition in Maharashtra following the tragic demise of Ajit Pawar in a plane crash on January 28. The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) legislative party has unanimously chosen Sunetra Pawar to lead the party and succeed her late husband. The speaker notes, 'Sunetra Pawar becomes the first woman to hold that position in the state', referring to the post of Deputy Chief Minister. The ceremony, held at Lok Bhavan in Mumbai, marks a significant shift as she transitions from a Rajya Sabha MP to the Deputy Chief Minister's office. Senior leaders, including Praful Patel, were present as preparations were finalised for the Governor to administer the oath. The report highlights that Sunetra Pawar is expected to retain the key cabinet portfolios previously held by her husband in the current administration, ensuring continuity for the NCP faction amidst the recent tragedy.
This news report covers the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) legislative meeting in Mumbai, where Sunetra Pawar was unanimously elected as the CLP leader. Following the proposal by Dilip Walse Patil and support from top leaders like Chhagan Bhujbal, she is set to become Maharashtra's first woman Deputy Chief Minister. The reporter notes, 'Sunetra Pawar is set to take oath as the Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister' at 5 PM today. The transition follows her resignation as a Member of Parliament. While the Ajit Pawar faction solidifies its leadership, questions regarding a potential merger between the two NCP factions remain unanswered. The swearing-in ceremony at Lok Bhavan is expected to be a concise event attended by major political figures. Meanwhile, Sharad Pawar and Supriya Sule are reportedly holding a separate meeting in Pune. The broadcast highlights Sunetra Pawar's new role in leading the faction forward, marking a significant shift in the state's political landscape.
On this Special Report, the focus is on the major political transition in Maharashtra following the demise of Ajit Pawar. Sunetra Pawar has been unanimously chosen as the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) Congress Legislative Party (CLP) leader during a meeting in Mumbai. The proposal for her leadership was moved by Chhagan Bhujbal and received full support from the faction. Sunetra Pawar is set to become the first woman Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, with her swearing-in ceremony scheduled for 5 PM today. She will take over portfolios previously held by her husband, including State Excise and Sports, while the Finance portfolio remains with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis for the interim period. The broadcast highlights that 'Sunetra Pawar will now lead the way forward when it comes to the Ajit Pawar faction of the NCP' as the party seeks a smooth transition and continuity. Meanwhile, merger talks and meetings led by Sharad Pawar in Pune continue to shape the future of the NCP.
In this news bulletin, an unidentified speaker discusses the significant political developments within the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) in Maharashtra. The report focuses on a crucial legislative meeting in Mumbai where Sunetra Pawar is expected to be unanimously chosen as the leader of the Ajit Pawar faction. The speaker notes, 'she will be the first woman Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra', marking a historic milestone in the state's politics. The bulletin highlights that senior leaders like Praful Patel, Chhagan Bhujbal, and Sunil Tatkare are present to welcome her. Discussions also touch upon the potential reallocation of portfolios, with the Chief Minister possibly retaining the finance department. While the Sharad Pawar faction has mentioned merger possibilities, the Ajit Pawar faction remains focused on organizational stability following the reported demise of its leader. The swearing-in ceremony is anticipated to take place at 5 pm, signaling a new chapter for the NCP leadership.
This news report covers the evolving political landscape within the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) following the sudden demise of Ajit Pawar. The reporter notes that 'final meeting about merger held on 17th of January' and that technicalities were being addressed by leaders from both factions. Discussions are currently underway at Govind Bagh, where Sharad Pawar has initiated conversations with Parth Pawar, Supriya Sule, and other family members. Sunetra Pawar is positioned as a central figure in these negotiations, having held talks with Praful Patel, Sunil Tatkare, and political strategist Naresh Arora. The report highlights the shift in power dynamics within the Pawar family as they navigate the procedure of a political merger. While a CLP meeting and oath-taking ceremony are scheduled in Mumbai, the focus remains on whether the factions will unite and who will eventually succeed the leadership mantle held by the late Ajit Pawar.
On this Special Report, the focus is on the dramatic developments within the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) following the reported demise of Ajit Pawar. Reporter Omkar Bhave provides an exclusive 'inside scoop' regarding a January 17 meeting held at Sharad Pawar’s residence, Govind Bagh, in Baramati. During this meeting, it was revealed that 'Ajit Pawar was completely keen for the merger' and had personally initiated the plan to unify the two NCP factions. The merger was reportedly finalised for February 12, following the Pune Zila Parishad elections. However, the current political landscape has shifted significantly. Sharad Pawar clarified that he was unaware of Sunetra Pawar’s potential elevation to Deputy Chief Minister, noting that decisions are being made by Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare. A high-level meeting is currently underway in Baramati involving Sharad Pawar, Supriya Sule, and Yugendra Pawar to discuss the future of the party and Maharashtra politics amidst these contradictory developments.
On this India Today special report, correspondent Omkar Bhoble discusses the volatile political landscape in Maharashtra following the sudden developments within the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). The report highlights a significant communication gap between the two factions, as Sharad Pawar claimed he was unaware of Sunetra Pawar being sworn in as the Deputy Chief Minister. Omkar Bhoble notes that 'Sharad Pawar has clarified meeting was held on 17th of January and Ajit Pawar had given the date that let's come together on 12th of February' for a potential merger. However, the absence of Ajit Pawar has thrown these plans into uncertainty. The discussion explores the ideological differences that led to the initial split and the technical challenges of reuniting the factions. With local elections in Pune approaching, the future of the Mahayuti alliance and the leadership of the NCP remains unclear as the Pawar family navigates these unforeseen circumstances.
This news report details a significant leadership transition within the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) in Maharashtra. Following the reported demise of the Deputy Chief Minister, Sunetra Pawar has reportedly accepted the proposal to be appointed as the new Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra. The report states, 'Sunetra Bawar has already accepted the proposal to be appointed as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra and her oath ceremony is likely to be held tomorrow at 5 pm.' Consequently, her current Rajya Sabha seat is expected to be vacated, with sources indicating that her eldest son, Parth Pawar, will be nominated to fill the vacancy. An NCP Legislative Party meeting is scheduled for 2 pm to formally elect Sunetra Pawar as the leader. The broadcast features insights from reporter Deepesh Tripathi, who explains that Sunetra Pawar will have six months to be elected to the state legislature after taking the oath, marking Parth Pawar's official entry into parliamentary politics.
In a significant political development in Maharashtra, Sunetra Pawar has reached Mumbai to take the oath as the Deputy Chief Minister today. This move follows the vacancy created by the demise of Ajit Pawar. According to the transcript, the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) legislative party is scheduled to meet at 10 AM to formally elect her as the party leader. The swearing-in ceremony is expected to take place at 5 PM. While Sunetra Pawar will assume the role of Deputy Chief Minister, the distribution of portfolios remains under discussion. The transcript notes that 'It is Sunetra Pawar who fills in that show of the deputy chief minister that role shall be filled in by her,' though she may not inherit all of Ajit Pawar's previous portfolios, specifically the finance department. Experienced leaders within the NCP faction are being considered for specific roles to ensure administrative continuity in the state government.
On this news bulletin, the focus is on the major political transition in Maharashtra following the tragic death of Ajit Pawar in an air crash. Sunetra Pawar has accepted the proposal to be appointed as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, with her oath-taking ceremony scheduled for 5 pm tomorrow. The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) legislature party will meet at 2 pm to formally elect her as the leader. Sunetra Pawar, a Rajya Sabha MP and founder of the Environmental Forum of India, will retain the excise and sports portfolios, while Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is expected to take charge of the finance portfolio. The report also discusses the future of the proposed NCP merger, which was reportedly slated for February 2026. 'Sunetra Pawar was spoken to, yesterday she was consulted... and today she has given her acceptance,' noted the correspondent while discussing the leadership vacuum and the potential political realignment within the Mahayuti government.
On this India Today special report, journalist Smriti Koppikar analyzes the unfolding political dynamics within the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) following the demise of Ajit Pawar. Koppikar highlights that while the 'Asthi Visarjan' occurred only this morning, internal power struggles have already gained momentum. She notes, 'There is no great constitutional obligation to fill the post of the deputy chief minister that a late Ajit Pawar held,' suggesting the rush to name a successor like Sunetra Pawar indicates an intense internecine battle. The discussion, featuring insights from senior journalists including Rohit Chandavarkar and Sudhir Suryavanshi, explores the potential for a 'sympathy wave' in upcoming Zilla Parishad polls and the possibility of an NCP merger. The panel examines the relationship between the NCP factions and the BJP, noting that the party currently has limited choices as it navigates a leadership vacuum and constitutional transitions in Maharashtra's government.
On this Special Report, the focus is on the shifting political landscape of Maharashtra following the reported death of Ajit Pawar. An Unidentified speaker analyzes the potential merger of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) factions and the leadership vacuum left behind. The speaker notes, 'I think is the only person who has the stature to bring together the NCP on one platform.' The discussion highlights the central role of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in determining the next Deputy Chief Minister and the future of the Mahayuti alliance. The programme explores whether Sunetra Pawar or other senior leaders like Chhagan Bhujbal will step up, while emphasizing that the BJP, led by Devendra Fadnavis and Amit Shah, remains the dominant force controlling the state's political narrative. The Unidentified speaker also reflects on previous failed unity attempts between Sharad Pawar and the NDA, suggesting the NCP now faces a battle for its own relevance.
This special report examines the sudden leadership vacuum within the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) following the reported demise of Ajit Pawar. The programme explores the 'succession, survival, and strategy' required to navigate the complex political landscape of Maharashtra. A key point of discussion is the potential reunification of the two NCP factions, with senior leaders suggesting that 'reunification was Ajit Pawar's final wish.' The report highlights Sunetra Pawar as a likely interim heir apparent for the Baramati Assembly seat and a contender for the Deputy Chief Minister post. Analysts, including consulting editor Rajdeep Sardesai, discuss the role of the BJP in shaping the future of the NCP and the upcoming Zilla Parishad elections. The discussion underscores the existential crisis facing the party as it balances internal power struggles with the need for political relevance in the state's dominant coalition.
This special report examines the political vacuum in Maharashtra following the passing of Ajit Pawar. The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) is currently at a crossroads, with senior leaders including Praful Patel, Sunil Tatkare, and Chhagan Bhujbal meeting Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to secure the party's grip on key cabinet portfolios like Finance and Excise. A significant development involves Sunetra Pawar, who is expected to be elected as the legislative party leader and may contest the vacant Baramati seat. The report notes that 'NCP has called a legislative party meeting and Sunetra Pawar is likely going to be elected as the leader of the party.' Furthermore, discussions regarding a potential merger with the Sharad Pawar faction, led by Eknath Khadse's indications, have surfaced. The Pawar family legacy remains central to the state's dynamics as the third generation, including Rohit Pawar and Parth Pawar, continues to navigate the evolving political landscape amidst these leadership transitions.
In this news report, the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has officially staked its claim to the cabinet portfolios previously held by Ajit Pawar. Senior leaders including Praful Patel, Sunil Tatkare, and Chhagan Bhujbal met with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at his Varsha residence to ensure the party maintains control over key departments such as Finance, State Excise, and Sports. The meeting follows internal discussions in Baramati. During the broadcast, it was noted that 'the budget will be presented by Devendra Fadnavis himself' as a temporary measure. The NCP is requesting that these portfolios remain within their fold and be assigned to another party minister until a permanent Deputy Chief Minister is finalized. Further consultations with party hierarchies in Delhi are expected before a final decision is reached on the cabinet reshuffle and portfolio allocation.
