NEW DELHI: The Election Commission (EC) has officially declared Ajit Pawar's faction as the authentic Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), granting them the right to use the party's name and symbol. This decision comes after a series of hearings over a span of six months, culminating in the EC's determination based on the "test of legislative majority."
In a significant setback to Sharad Pawar, the EC's ruling recognizes Ajit Pawar's group as the legitimate NCP, citing inconsistencies in timelines and claims presented by the Sharad Pawar faction. The EC has provided a one-time option for Sharad Pawar's faction to claim a new name for their political formation and submit three preferences to the Commission by 3 pm on February 7, 2024.
The decision is expected to fuel further legal battles among NCP factions, with Sharad Pawar-led MLAs likely to challenge the ruling in court. Ajit Pawar's faction, meanwhile, is set to proceed with preparations for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections in Maharashtra under the banner of the Nationalist Congress Party.