Prashant Jagtap has resigned from his position as the Pune unit chief of the Nationalist Congress Party-Secular Progressive Front (NCP-SP), a decision that has significant implications for the party’s dynamics ahead of the upcoming civic elections in Maharashtra. Jagtap’s resignation, announced on December 25, 2025, comes amid ongoing discussions regarding a potential merger of various factions within the NCP, a move he has publicly opposed.
Jagtap, who has been a prominent figure in Pune’s political landscape, cited his disagreement with the proposed merger as the primary reason for his resignation. In a statement released to the media, he expressed concerns that uniting the factions could dilute the party’s core values and alienate its grassroots supporters. His departure marks a notable shift in the local leadership of the NCP-SP, which has been navigating internal divisions and external pressures in recent months.
The NCP, founded in 1999 by Sharad Pawar, has historically been a significant player in Maharashtra politics. The party has faced challenges in maintaining unity, particularly following the 2019 state assembly elections, where it formed a coalition government with the Shiv Sena and the Indian National Congress. However, the coalition faced instability, leading to a split in the NCP and the emergence of various factions, including the NCP-SP.
Jagtap’s resignation is particularly impactful as the Pune unit is considered a vital stronghold for the NCP. The city has a diverse electorate, and local leaders play a crucial role in mobilizing support during elections. With civic polls approaching, Jagtap’s exit could create a leadership vacuum and complicate the party’s strategy in Pune, a city that has seen intense political competition in recent years.
The proposed merger of factions within the NCP has been a contentious issue. Supporters of the merger argue that it could strengthen the party’s position against rival political entities, including the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Shiv Sena. However, opponents, like Jagtap, contend that merging factions could lead to a loss of identity and a disconnect from the party’s foundational principles. This internal conflict reflects broader tensions within the NCP as it seeks to navigate a rapidly changing political landscape in Maharashtra.
Jagtap’s resignation is not an isolated incident; it follows a series of departures from the NCP by other leaders who have expressed similar concerns about the direction of the party. These exits have raised questions about the party’s ability to maintain cohesion and present a united front in the face of electoral challenges. The NCP’s leadership, including Sharad Pawar, will need to address these internal divisions to ensure the party remains competitive in the upcoming elections.
The timing of Jagtap’s resignation is particularly significant as Maharashtra prepares for civic polls, which are scheduled to take place in early 2026. These elections are critical for local governance and will serve as a barometer for the political climate in the state. The outcome could have far-reaching implications for the NCP and its ability to influence policy and governance at the municipal level.
In the wake of Jagtap’s resignation, the NCP-SP will need to quickly reassess its strategy in Pune. The party’s leadership may seek to appoint a new unit chief who can rally support and address the concerns raised by Jagtap and others. Additionally, the party will need to engage with its base to reassure supporters of its commitment to their interests amid the ongoing discussions about faction mergers.
As the political landscape in Maharashtra continues to evolve, Jagtap’s resignation serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by established parties in adapting to new realities. The NCP’s ability to navigate these internal conflicts and present a cohesive strategy will be crucial as it prepares for the upcoming civic elections. The implications of these developments will likely resonate beyond Pune, influencing the broader political dynamics in Maharashtra and shaping the future of the NCP as it seeks to reclaim its position in the state’s political hierarchy.
