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Supriya Sule Rules Out BJP, Ajit Pawar Alliance
Supriya Sule, the National Working President of the Sharad Pawar-led NCP, has categorically ruled out any alliance with the BJP or with the rival faction headed by her cousin Ajit Pawar for the upcoming municipal elections in Maharashtra. Her statement comes amid growing political speculation over possible reunification or tactical understandings between factions of the NCP.
While touring Pune district to review local civic issues and meeting officials, Sule took a clear stand on future political alignments. She noted that open dialogue among leaders was a part of Maharashtra’s democratic tradition but left no room for confusion about her electoral choices, stating, “In a democracy, there should be dialogue. We should meet all party leaders and this is Maharashtra’s tradition. But in the coming elections, we will never go with the BJP.”
NCP–Sharad Pawar Stays Solo
Sule’s comments are a direct rebuttal to the recent stance taken by the Ajit Pawar-led faction, which has reaffirmed its alliance with the BJP under the Mahayuti banner. Ajit Pawar’s loyalists, including senior leaders, have declared that their alignment with the BJP is permanent and will continue into the municipal elections.
The city unit of NCP (Sharad Pawar) echoed Sule’s views, confirming their intent to contest Pune civic polls independently. According to senior city leaders, the party is preparing to field candidates across all wards and is confident of winning public support without relying on either the BJP or the rival NCP faction.
Municipal Poll Build-Up Intensifies
With the Supreme Court having directed the Maharashtra State Election Commission to conduct municipal elections by September, political activity has surged across the state. Pune, being a key urban stronghold, is witnessing early manoeuvring by all parties. The division between the two NCP factions adds another layer of complexity to the contest.
Sule’s assertion not only clarifies her party’s stand but also distances the Sharad Pawar faction from any post-election speculation about coalition formation. It also comes at a time when internal party unity and public messaging are critical, especially in urban centres where voter alignment is fluid and party loyalty often splits across personalities and issues.
As municipal elections approach, the Sharad Pawar-led NCP’s decision to stay out of both BJP and Ajit Pawar’s political orbit will shape how opposition forces consolidate or fragment across Maharashtra’s cities.
