Decades have witnessed Sharad Pawar’s unwavering dominance in the intricate realm of Indian politics, attributed to his sagacity and strategic political maneuvers. At 84, the seasoned political figure confronts an imposing challenge, having relinquished his party’s appellation and emblem due to a rebellion spearheaded by none other than his nephew – Ajit Pawar.
In a recent decree, the Election Commission asserted that the Ajit Pawar faction, encompassing eminent figures like Chhagan Bhujbal and Praful Patel, would retain the Nationalist Congress Party name and the ‘clock’ symbol. This development proves to be a substantial setback for the stalwart from Baramati, especially considering the impending general election and state polls.
Strategizing the Counterattack by Sharad Pawar’s Faction
An urgent priority for the faction lies in identifying a name and symbol for their political entity. This urgency stems from the proximity of the Rajya Sabha polls and the looming Lok Sabha and state elections. The Election Commission has extended a “one-time option” for the faction to nominate a moniker for their political outfit and submit three preferences by 4 pm today. Supriya Sule, Mr. Pawar’s daughter and Baramati MP, affirmed their intent to submit the preferences on the same day.
Insiders reveal that anticipation surrounded the poll panel’s verdict, prompting preliminary discussions on potential names for the party. Sources indicate that the veteran leader may settle on a name incorporating “nationalist” and possessing widespread appeal. Contemplated symbols include spectacles, the rising sun, and a sunflower.
Jitendra Awhad, Sharad Pawar’s confidant and former minister, expressed confidence in the veteran leader’s resurgence, likening it to a phoenix. When questioned about the ensuing course of action, he asserted, “Sharad Pawar is our party, our symbol, and the people of this state recognize him. There are numerous individuals in the state firmly supporting Pawar.”
A formidable challenge for the party lies in disseminating awareness about its new identity and symbol, mere months before crucial state and national elections. Failure to acquaint voters, especially in rural areas, with the revamped party’s name and symbol might bestow an undue advantage upon the Ajit Pawar faction in the upcoming polls.
Navigating the Supreme Court Battle
Reacting to the Election Commission’s ruling, the Sharad Pawar camp has approached the Supreme Court. Supriya Sule drew parallels with the predicament faced by the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction of Shiv Sena last year, emphasizing their determination to contest the decision. She alluded to an “invisible power” orchestrating political conspiracies.
Sharad Pawar, recalling the formation of NCP in 1999, stressed the significance of public perception and leaders’ work over party symbols and names. The setback, occurring just ahead of pivotal elections, poses a significant test to the veteran’s decades-long political acumen. The protracted legal battle in the Supreme Court implies limited relief for the Sharad Pawar camp before the elections.
Jayant Patil, a key aide, contended that the Election Commission’s decision contradicts a previous Supreme Court judgment. He cited the Supreme Court’s stance on party loyalty, irrespective of MLAs shifting allegiances, suggesting this as a potential argument before the top court.
Impact on Political Alliances
Despite losing his party’s name and symbol, Sharad Pawar remains a prominent figure in the Indian Opposition bloc, with minimal impact on his role. Uddhav Thackeray, facing a similar fate, retains his position within the bloc. However, Sharad Pawar’s bargaining power takes a hit after ceding control of his party to his nephew. In Maharashtra, the Sharad Pawar faction is anticipated to sustain its alliance with the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) and the Congress, both leaders vigorously pushing for success in the upcoming state polls.
Leaders within the Sharad Pawar camp assert solid support from most state units, minimizing the likelihood of significant changes in state alliances.
The Election Commission’s verdict brings relief to the Ajit Pawar faction and the Eknath Shinde government it is part of. Ajit Pawar expressed gratitude for the ruling, while Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde commended the decision’s merit.