Pune: Amol Mitkari Pushes Jay Pawar for MLC Seat, Calls Him Future Face of NCP

Pune, 27th April 2026: Nationalist Congress Party leader Amol Mitkari on Sunday pitched for Jay Pawar to be sent to the Maharashtra Legislative Council, saying the party needs a young, trusted and future-ready face to expand its base across the state. His statement came after the Election Commission announced polls to nine vacant Legislative Council seats, scheduled for May 12.

Mitkari, whose own tenure as an MLC is ending, said Jay Pawar is the best choice for one of the seats and has the potential to emerge as a reassuring leader for Maharashtra in the years ahead. In a post on social media, he said that at a time when lobbying and internal competition for nominations was visible, the party should think beyond individuals and promote a leader who can strengthen the organisation in the long run.

He said Jay Pawar possesses the ability to fill the void that may arise after Ajit Pawar and could become a major asset for the party. Mitkari added that while some may dismiss the move as dynastic politics, the need of the hour was to bring forward a dependable young leader who can carry the party ahead. He clarified that the final decision, however, rests entirely with the party leadership.

The Election Commission has announced elections to nine seats in the Upper House, with polling to be held on May 12. A candidate requires 28 votes to secure victory.

Based on current Assembly strength, the ruling Mahayuti alliance comprising BJP, Shiv Sena led by Eknath Shinde, and NCP led by Ajit Pawar is well placed to win eight seats, while the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi is likely to comfortably secure one seat.