Alliance Trouble? NCP Hints at Maharashtra Shift

Mumbai, March 19, 2026: The political landscape in Maharashtra is once again buzzing with speculation as the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) appears to be subtly distancing itself from its current alliance partners, the Shiv Sena (UBT) and the Indian National Congress. Sources within the NCP suggest growing discontent over seat-sharing arrangements and a perceived lack of coordination within the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition in preparation for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

This week, senior NCP leader and former Deputy Chief Minister, Ajit Pawar, raised eyebrows when he stated, "The NCP is a strong party with a significant base across Maharashtra. We expect our alliance partners to acknowledge our strength and allocate seats accordingly. We are open to discussions with all like-minded parties to ensure the stability and progress of the state." While Pawar did not explicitly mention leaving the MVA, his statement has been interpreted by many as a veiled threat and a signal to explore alternative alliances.

Cracks in the MVA: Seat Sharing Disputes

The primary point of contention appears to be the distribution of Lok Sabha seats. The NCP is reportedly seeking a larger share of seats than what the Shiv Sena (UBT) and Congress are willing to concede. According to sources, the NCP aims to contest at least 25 of the 48 Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra, citing their performance in the recent local body elections. This demand has reportedly caused friction within the alliance, with both the Shiv Sena (UBT) and Congress reluctant to cede ground.

Speaking to News Reporter Live, a senior Congress leader, on condition of anonymity, acknowledged the challenges in seat sharing. "Negotiations are ongoing, and we are committed to finding a mutually agreeable solution. However, it's crucial to remember that the MVA was formed on the principles of unity and compromise. We are confident that we can resolve these issues through dialogue," the leader said.

BJP's Overture: An Open Invitation?

Adding fuel to the fire, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), currently in opposition in Maharashtra, has subtly extended an invitation to the NCP. Senior BJP leader and former Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, recently stated, "The BJP is always open to working with parties that share our commitment to development and good governance. If any party is disillusioned with their current alliance and believes in our vision, we are ready to have a conversation." This statement is widely seen as an attempt to woo the NCP and potentially destabilize the MVA government. reportersays, the BJP has been keen to find cracks in the MVA alliance.

The historical context of Maharashtra politics is crucial here. The NCP, formed in 1999 after Sharad Pawar broke away from the Congress, has a long and complex relationship with both the Congress and the BJP. In 2019, after the state elections, the NCP briefly aligned with the BJP before forming the MVA with the Shiv Sena and Congress. This history of shifting allegiances makes the current situation particularly unpredictable.

Implications for Maharashtra Politics

The potential shift in alliances could have significant implications for Maharashtra politics. If the NCP were to join hands with the BJP, it would significantly strengthen the BJP's position in the state and potentially pave the way for them to regain power in the next assembly elections. On the other hand, if the NCP remains with the MVA, it could solidify the alliance and present a united front against the BJP. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the future of Maharashtra's political landscape.

Meanwhile, ground-level reactions are mixed. NCP workers in Pune expressed support for Ajit Pawar's stance, hoping for a more assertive role for the party. "We need to ensure our party gets the respect it deserves," said one NCP worker. Conversely, Shiv Sena (UBT) supporters in Mumbai voiced concerns about the MVA's stability, emphasizing the need for unity to counter the BJP's influence. "We must stick together to protect Maharashtra's interests," said a Sena worker.