India, June 5 -- When the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) turns 26 on June 10, its two rival factions will mark the occasion with two contrasting events - one a show of strength, the other a low-key celebration.

Both parties - the NCP led by Ajit Pawar and the NCP (SP) led by his uncle, Sharad Pawar - have chosen Pune as the venue. Most importantly, leaders as well as the rank and file from both factions are hoping to get clarity on whether the two parties will merge, a subject that has fuelled much speculation lately.

Ajit Pawar has booked a part of the Balewadi sports complex, where seating arrangements will be made for 15,000 office-bearers. "It should be seen as a show of strength of the party against the backdrop of the local body...