Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar dropped a political bombshell on Sunday, announcing that his NCP faction and uncle Sharad Pawars NCP(SP) will join forces to contest the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) elections on January 15, 2026. Speaking at a rally in Talawade, he called it a parivar together moment, with the clock and tutari symbols uniting for the first time since the party split.

Ajit Pawar revealed that seat-sharing has already been finalized between the two groups and will be announced within two days, urging workers to stay united and focus on development rather than controversies. He highlighted Pimpri-Chinchwads past glory under NCP rule from 1999 to 2017, crediting Sharad Pawar for bringing the Hinjewadi IT hub that transformed the area into one of Asias richest civic bodies—before what he called recent debt and corruption issues under BJP control.

This tactical alliance aims to reclaim the 128-seat PCMC, a Pawar stronghold now held by BJP since 2017, by consolidating their traditional vote base in this industrial powerhouse near Pune. Pawar named candidates for key wards like Ward 12 (Pankaj Bhalekar, Sharad Bhalekar, Seema Bhalekar, Charulata Sonawane) and Ward 1 (Yash Sane, Vikas Sane, Sadhna Netaji Kashid, Sangita Tamhane), promising balanced representation inspired by social reformers.

The move blurs lines for Ajits Mahayuti partners while aiding Sharads MVA links, potentially setting a template for Pune Municipal Corporation talks and beyond amid nominations closing December 30. With voting on January 15 and results January 16, voters face a high-stakes choice on urban growth, jobs, and infrastructure in this booming hub.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from NDTV.