Nearly two months after the death of former deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar in a plane crash in Baramati, fresh political developments have emerged within the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). Two legislators from the party have openly supported the idea of a merger with the faction led by Sharad Pawar, indicating renewed discussions around reunification, reported news agency PTI.
Growing calls for reunification within NCP
The possibility of a merger between the factions has resurfaced despite earlier denials. Shortly after Ajit Pawar’s demise on January 28, leaders from the Sharad Pawar-led faction had suggested that discussions regarding a merger were already underway. At the time, leaders from the Ajit Pawar-led camp had rejected these claims, reported PTI.
However, recent statements suggest a shift in sentiment. Sunil Shelke, MLA from Maval and considered a close aide of Ajit Pawar, said that the opportunity for unity has not passed.
“If both factions come together and the party grows under the leadership of Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar, it would benefit everyone,” Shelke stated, reported PTI.
Support from party leadership at multiple levels
Shelke’s remarks were echoed by Anna Bansode, deputy speaker of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly. Bansode emphasized that there is a broader consensus within the party.
“Leaders at both the state and district levels believe that uniting under Sunetra Pawar’s leadership would be a positive step for the party’s future,” he said, reported PTI.
These endorsements signal that discussions around a merger may be gaining traction at multiple levels within the organisation.
Banner controversy sparks internal discord
The statements come amid a controversy involving missing photographs of Ajit Pawar and Sunetra Pawar at a party event in Raigad district. The event, attended by state NCP president Sunil Tatkare, triggered criticism from rival faction leaders, reported PTI.
The programme, held on March 27 in Indapur within the constituency of NCP minister Aditi Tatkare, was organised to felicitate newly elected members of local bodies. Notably, banners at the venue displayed images of Sunil Tatkare, Aditi Tatkare, and her brother Aniket Tatkare, but omitted photos of Ajit Pawar and Sunetra Pawar.
Leaders from the Sharad Pawar faction criticised the omission, calling it a reflection of internal divisions.
Aditi Tatkare expresses regret, denies intent
Responding to the controversy, Aditi Tatkare clarified that the event was organised at the grassroots level by local workers and that the omission was not deliberate, reported PTI.
“I express regret over the absence of photos of our late leader Ajit Pawar and Sunetra Pawar. Their place in our hearts remains unshakable,” she said, urging observers not to question the loyalty of party workers based on a banner, reported PTI.
Allegations and counter-allegations deepen rift
Meanwhile, Rohit Pawar from the Sharad Pawar faction alleged that senior leaders such as Sunil Tatkare and Praful Patel were attempting to sideline Sunetra Pawar and gain control over the party.
These allegations were strongly rejected by NCP leaders, who dismissed them as baseless and advised Rohit Pawar to focus on his own party affairs.
As internal tensions continue alongside growing calls for unity, the future of the NCP and the possibility of a merger remain key developments to watch in Maharashtra’s political landscape.
(With inputs from PTI)
