Sharad Pawar Rallies Loyalists as NCP (SP) Marks 26th Foundation Day Amid Split Reflections

​On the 26th Foundation Day of the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar), veteran leader Sharad Pawar struck a tone of reflection and resolve, addressing loyalists while acknowledging the party’s dramatic 2023 split. He called for unity and ideological clarity as the party charts its course ahead.

Speaking at a commemorative event, Pawar admitted that the division—between his faction and the one led by nephew Ajit Pawar—had come as a surprise.
“We never imagined such a split,” he said. “Some chose a different path, but those who remained did so out of commitment—to our principles and the people.”
The schism, which saw Ajit Pawar align with the Shiv Sena-BJP alliance and lay claim to the NCP’s original name and symbol, marked a turning point in Maharashtra politics. Since then, Sharad Pawar has helmed the breakaway NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar), also known as NCP (SP).

Despite political setbacks, Pawar projected confidence in the party’s future.
“Let’s not focus on who has left,” he urged. “If we stay united and work for the people, power will come. Our strength lies in sincere workers serving on the ground.”
With civic elections on the horizon, Pawar said the party is weighing whether to contest solo or explore alliances. He also emphasized inclusivity, pointing to the 50% reservation for women in local bodies.

“We must nurture young leaders and ensure women have rightful representation,” he said.
Meanwhile, party working president and Pawar’s daughter, Supriya Sule, sidestepped questions about a possible reconciliation between the two factions. When asked about cousin Ajit Pawar, she quipped, “I have six brothers and think of them every day,” avoiding a direct response about whether she had contacted him.
Sule, rumouired to be playing an increasingly central role in the party, downplayed such talk. “I have barely had time to meet my family in the past 15 days. In a democracy, everyone has a right to express themselves,” she said. She also paid tribute to the late R. R. Patil, reinforcing the party’s legacy of public service.
Earlier in the day, emotions ran high as senior leader Jayant Patil hinted at stepping aside to make way for younger leadership.
“Pawar saheb gave me many opportunities. Now it’s time for the next generation,” Patil said at an event in Pune. His remarks prompted an outpouring from party workers, leading a visibly moved Patil to ask for calm.

As NCP (SP) continues to shape its identity in the wake of the split, the Foundation Day served as both a moment of introspection and a rallying call. With the past behind and elections ahead, the party signalled a renewed emphasis on youth, grassroots engagement, and Sharad Pawar’s enduring leadership.​