Raut Claims Ajit Pawar Set for Political Return to Opposition Fold
MUMBAI, 28 January 2026 – A fresh storm has erupted in Maharashtra’s political landscape after Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) leader Sanjay Raut claimed that the two factions of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) are reuniting and that Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar will soon return to the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA).
Opposition Leader’s Bombshell Claim
Speaking to reporters in Mumbai over the weekend, Mr. Raut asserted that the ruling NCP faction led by Mr. Ajit Pawar has effectively merged with the Sharad Pawar-led NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar). He pointed to the fact that both groups are contesting the upcoming Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti elections on the NCP’s original ‘clock’ election symbol as evidence of their unity.
“Though Ajit Pawar is part of the Mahayuti [ruling alliance], he is still connected with the MVA,” Mr. Raut claimed. “Sharad Pawar and Ajit Pawar will come together as part of the MVA. Ajit Pawar cannot step on two stones.”
Context: A Party Divided and Under Pressure
The NCP split in July 2023 when Mr. Ajit Pawar, along with several MLAs, joined the Eknath Shinde-led government in alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The faction he led retained the party name and its ‘clock’ symbol, while Mr. Sharad Pawar’s group was designated NCP (SP).
The claims of a reunion come against the backdrop of a disappointing performance by both NCP factions in the recent municipal corporation elections held earlier this month. The BJP secured a dominant victory, winning 19 out of 29 corporations, while the NCP’s tally was significantly lower.
Analysts note that the poor electoral showing has intensified internal discussions about the future relevance of a divided party and placed pressure on the ruling Mahayuti alliance.
Key Facts & Recent Developments
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| NCP Split | July 2023: Ajit Pawar faction joins BJP-Shiv Sena (Shinde) government. Party splits. |
| Jan 2026 Local Polls | BJP wins 19 of 29 municipal corporations. NCP factions perform poorly. |
| Electoral Alliance | Both NCP factions contesting upcoming local body polls on shared ‘clock’ symbol. |
| Sanjay Raut’s Claim | Alleges merger is underway and Ajit Pawar will rejoin opposition MVA. |
| Reported Mahayuti Tensions | Raut also claimed Deputy CM Eknath Shinde is upset with BJP over Mumbai mayor post. |
Broader Political Recalibration
Political observers suggest that Mr. Sharad Pawar’s reduced public appearances in recent months have fuelled speculation about a political transition. In a recent interview, Mr. Ajit Pawar himself stated that workers from both NCP sides favoured a reunion and that familial tensions had ended.
Furthermore, reports have emerged that sections within the BJP are reconsidering the alliance with Mr. Ajit Pawar’s NCP following its weak poll performance. Some analyses even suggest the BJP might look to bring Mr. Sharad Pawar’s faction into the ruling fold to alter alliance dynamics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the basis of Sanjay Raut’s claim?
Mr. Raut’s claim is primarily based on the electoral coordination between the two NCP factions, who are jointly contesting local body elections on a single symbol. He interprets this as a de facto merger.
How have the NCP factions performed recently?
Both factions suffered significant setbacks in the January 2026 municipal elections, failing to make a substantial impact against the BJP’s strong showing.
Has Ajit Pawar responded to these claims?
As of the time of writing, Mr. Ajit Pawar has not publicly responded to Mr. Raut’s specific allegations about an imminent return to the MVA.