Senior politician Sharad Pawar on Sunday said the Election Commission’s decision to allot the NCP name and symbol to Ajit Pawar-led group was “surprising” as the poll body has “snatched” the party from the hands of those who founded it and gave it to others.

Mr Pawar said the programme and ideology are important for the people while a symbol is useful for a limited period.

“I am confident that people will not support the Election Commission ruling against which we have approached the Supreme Court,” he said.

The Election Commission not only snatched our symbol but also handed over our party to others, he said.

“The EC snatched the party from the hands of those who founded and built it and gave it to others; such a thing never happened before,” said Mr Pawar, who founded the NCP in 1999.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

As we step into the new year, January has already treated us to a variety of theatrical releases, setting the stage for an exciting lineup of upcoming movies. From heart-pounding action to side-splitting comedies, the carefully curated list below promises to captivate audiences of all tastes. Get ready to mark your calendars for a month full of entertainment at the cinemas.

Argylle – Feb 2

Director:Matthew Vaughn

Starring: Henry Cavill, Bryce Dallas Howard, Sam Rockwell, Bryan Cranston, Catherine O’Hara, Dua Lipa, Ariana DeBose, John Cena, Samuel L. Jackson

In this espionage thriller, author Elly Conway finds herself thrust into real-life spy adventures as the events in her own books mirror the actions of a sinister underground group. Aidan, an undercover agent, comes to her rescue, leading Elly into a hidden world where nothing is as it seems.

Madame Web – Feb 14

Director: S.J. Clarkson

Starring: Dakota Johnson, Sydney Sweeney, Celeste O’Connor, Isabela Merced, Tahar Rahim

Departing from the typical superhero narrative, this film follows paramedic Cassandra Webb, who gains the ability to see the future. Determined to bring about positive changes, Cassandra forms a connection with three young women facing important destinies. Together, they must navigate present dangers to move forward.

Bob Marley: One Love – Feb 14

Director: Reinaldo Marcus Green

Starring: Kingsley Ben-Adir, Lashana Lynch, James Norton, Daniel Melville Jr., Sevana, Hector Lewis, Tosin Cole

This biographical musical drama pays tribute to reggae icon Bob Marley, chronicling his journey from ascent to fame until his passing in 1981. The film celebrates the enduring legacy of Marley, whose messages of love and unity continue to inspire generations.

Land of Bad – Feb 16

Director: William Eubank

Starring: Liam Hemsworth, Russell Crowe, Luke Hemsworth, Ricky Whittle, Milo Ventimiglia

Set in the Philippines, the movie follows Reaper, a USAF drone pilot, providing air support to a US Army Delta Force team. After an unfortunate incident, JTAC officer Kinney becomes part of an extraction mission where the team relies on remote air support from Reaper to get him home.

Drive-Away Dolls – Feb 23

Director: Ethan Coen

Starring: Margaret Qualley, Geraldine Viswanathan, Beanie Feldstein, Colman Domingo, Pedro Pascal, Bill Camp, Matt Damon, Joey Slotnick, C. J. Wilson

This comedic adventure centres on Jamie, a free-spirited individual recovering from a breakup, and her reserved friend Marian, in need of excitement. Their spontaneous road trip to Tallahassee takes an unexpected turn when they encounter a group of bumbling criminals, derailing their plans for a fresh start.