In a pivotal ruling by the Election Commission, the long-standing factional feud within the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has reached a crucial turning point. On Tuesday, the Commission declared the faction led by Ajit Pawar as the authentic representation of the NCP, dealing a setback to the party's founder and veteran leader, Sharad Pawar.

The discord between the two factions traces back to July 2023, when Ajit Pawar broke ranks with his uncle Sharad Pawar and allied himself with the ruling coalition of BJP-Shiv Sena in Maharashtra. This move precipitated a split within the NCP, with both factions laying claim to the party's name and symbol. After a series of legal battles and more than 10 hearings spanning over six months, the Election Commission finally adjudicated in favor of Ajit Pawar's faction, granting it the recognition as the 'real' NCP and assigning the party symbol, the 'Wall Clock.'

Reacting to the Commission's decision, Ajit Pawar expressed humility on social media, acknowledging the verdict and emphasizing his faction's acceptance of it. He thanked the legal team for presenting their case effectively before the Election Commission.

In a notable concession, the Election Commission afforded Sharad Pawar's faction the opportunity to christen their new political entity in light of the impending Rajya Sabha elections. They were given until 4 pm on Wednesday to propose three potential names for their faction.

The decision-making process of the Election Commission hinged on a variety of factors, including the scrutiny of the party's constitution, objectives, and the organizational and legislative majority. Despite both factions operating outside the purview of the party constitution and engaging in disputed internal organizational elections, the "test of legislative majority" tilted the scales in favor of Ajit Pawar's faction.

With the Commission's ruling, Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister, Ajit Pawar, now prepares to convene a meeting with NCP ministers and select MLAs at his official residence in Mumbai. This gathering is poised to solidify the position of Ajit Pawar's faction within the NCP's ranks and delineate the future trajectory of the party in Maharashtra's political landscape.

The Election Commission's decision not only resolves the protracted factional dispute within the NCP but also establishes clarity regarding the party's leadership and representation.