In a significant development within Maharashtra’s political landscape, the Sharad Pawar faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has filed a petition in the Supreme Court to prevent the Ajit Pawar faction from using the “Clock” election symbol in the upcoming assembly elections. This legal maneuver reflects the deepening rift within the party and the urgency to clarify the electoral identity amid ongoing factional battles.
The Sharad Pawar faction argues that the Ajit Pawar group should be assigned a new symbol for the elections, citing confusion that arose among voters during the recent Lok Sabha elections, where Ajit Pawar contested under the “Clock” symbol. They contend that this has led to difficulties for voters in distinguishing between the two factions, creating uncertainty over which group genuinely represents the NCP.
In their petition, the Sharad Pawar faction emphasizes the need for clarity and fairness in the electoral process, stating, “To ensure a level playing field and prevent further voter confusion, it is essential that the Ajit Pawar faction be allotted a different symbol.” They urge the court to address this issue promptly, asserting that until the Supreme Court makes a ruling on the matter, the Ajit Pawar faction should not use the existing symbol.
The Supreme Court is set to hear the petition on October 15, a date that could significantly impact the upcoming elections and the ongoing power struggle within the party. Both factions are gearing up for the implications of this legal battle, which may influence their electoral strategies and prospects in the assembly elections.
As tensions rise, the legal proceedings are not just about a symbol but represent a broader struggle for legitimacy and recognition within the NCP. The outcome could shape the party’s future and determine the political landscape in Maharashtra, with voters keenly observing the developments in this high-stakes power tussle.
