NCP split row: Election Commission sets first personal hearing for October 6

The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) split and symbol row is set to be fast tracked with the Election Commission of India (ECI)scheduling the first substantive personal hearing on October 6 for both - Sharad Pawar and Ajit Pawar factions- to take a final decision.

The poll panel is learnt to have officially recognised that there are two rival groups in NCP, one led by Sharad Pawar, and the other led by Ajit Pawar, with each claiming stake as the real political party. The ECI has, therefore, decided to take up the matter through Para 15 of the Election Symbols (Reservation & Allotment) Order 1968.

Accordingly, the Commission has directed both the groups to remain present in person or through their authorized representative for a personal hearing in the matter on October 6, ET has learnt.


The Ajit Pawar faction had moved the issue to ECI first which then asked both rival groups to submit documentary evidence proving their support and strength in the organisational and legislative wings of the party.