The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has publicly pressured its leader, Sharad Pawar, to take decisive action following a controversial comment made by a member of the Congress party. The point of contention centers on the use of the phrase 'gungi gudiya'—a term historically used to describe a 'dumb doll' or someone perceived as lacking a voice or agency—directed at an NCP figure or associate.

According to reports from The Hindu, the NCP leadership has framed this as a matter of party dignity and political respect within the INDIA bloc, an opposition alliance formed to challenge the ruling government. The NCP has stated that if Sharad Pawar cannot secure a formal apology from the Congress party for the derogatory remark, the NCP will be forced to reconsider its membership in the coalition. This ultimatum highlights underlying tensions within the INDIA alliance, where smaller regional parties often struggle to maintain their standing against the influence of the larger Congress party. As of now, there has been no official response from the Congress leadership regarding the demand for an apology, nor has Sharad Pawar publicly committed to a specific course of action. The situation remains fluid as the NCP awaits a resolution to what they characterize as an unacceptable insult to their political standing.