Pune: Office bearers of the Pune city unit of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) passed a resolution supporting party president Ajit Pawar as the next Chief Minister of Maharashtra.

The decision was made during a high-profile gathering in the city on Tuesday (October 1), which focused on promoting Ajit Pawar’s work and fortifying his candidacy ahead of the upcoming state assembly elections.

The meeting was led by Pune City NCP President Deepak Mankar and was attended by senior NCP leaders, including NCP Traders’ Wing President Subhash Malpani, City Working President Pradeep Deshmukh, and former Mayor Rajlaxmi Bhosale.

Two key resolutions were passed at the meeting: first, a strong push for Ajit Pawar’s elevation to the position of Chief Minister, and second, a recommendation to nominate Deepak Mankar to the Maharashtra Legislative Council as one of the twelve governor-appointed members.

While the meeting showcased overwhelming support for Ajit Pawar, the absence of two prominent legislators—Chetan Tupe from Hadapsar and Sunil Tingre from Wadgaon Sheri, both from Ajit Pawar-led NCP—sparked conversations and speculation among party workers.

The legislators’ no-show has led to uncertainty about possible divisions within the faction, although the party has not commented on the issue.

Addressing the gathering, Mankar emphasized the need for unity and discipline within the party, urging members to follow Ajit Pawar’s instructions closely.

“Ajit Pawar’s directives are what drive decisions in Pune. We must work according to the list, form booth committees, and leave public statements to the designated spokespersons.

Ajit Pawar must become the Chief Minister, and positions will be awarded based on hard work,” Mankar asserted.

Former Mayor Rajlaxmi Bhosale also advised the party to focus on promoting the 'Ladki Bahin' scheme and increasing visibility of the NCP’s election symbol ahead of the elections.