India, Jan. 28 -- The Nationalist Congress Party Ajit-Pawar-led faction (NCP) has appointed Nilesh Nikam as its party leader in the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), a move that effectively makes him the leader of the opposition in the civic body.

The appointment was announced by NCP city unit president Sunil Tingre and party leader Subhash Jagtap. With this decision, Nikam will lead the NCP's councillors in the PMC, where the party is the second-largest group.

Speaking after his appointment, Nikam said, "I am grateful to all the elected members for entrusting me with this responsibility. My earlier experience in the municipal corporation will help me discharge my duties and ensure that civic issues are raised effectively."

Nikam has p...