In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court on Wednesday instructed the Ajit Pawar-led faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) not to use photographs or videos of party founder Sharad Pawar in campaigning for the upcoming election. This decision follows Ajit Pawar’s split from Sharad Pawar’s NCP last year.
Court’s Remarks: “Stand on Your Own Feet”
The bench, led by Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan, heard the plea filed by Sharad Pawar, which requested that his nephew be barred from using the original NCP clock symbol or any images that could imply unity between the two factions. Senior advocate Abhishek Singhvi, representing Sharad Pawar, argued that the circulation of old videos showing the two leaders together could mislead voters into thinking the Pawars are not at odds, potentially giving Ajit Pawar’s faction an advantage.
Justice Surya Kant pointedly rejected the plea from Ajit Pawar’s camp, stating, “You have an ideological difference with Sharad Pawar and are fighting against him. Therefore, learn to stand on your own legs.” The court emphasized that Ajit Pawar’s faction should establish its own identity.
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Compliance Order Issued to Ajit Pawar’s Office
The Supreme Court has ordered Ajit Pawar’s office to circulate a directive to party members, prohibiting the use of Sharad Pawar’s videos or photographs in their campaign materials. Justice Kant stated, “Find your own identity as a separate and distinct political party,” underscoring the importance of a clear distinction between the two factions.
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