Union Minister Piyush Goyal Expresses Doubt Over NCP Faction Reconciliation
Union Minister Piyush Goyal has publicly stated that he does not foresee a merger between the two factions of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), casting uncertainty over political realignments in Maharashtra. In a recent interview with PTI, Goyal emphasized that the NCP, as a crucial ally in the state's Mahayuti coalition, has been performing effectively under its current structure.
Goyal's Firm Stance on Party Allegiance and Leadership
Goyal remarked, "I personally do not see that will happen," referring to the potential unification of the factions formerly led by the late Ajit Pawar and his uncle Sharad Pawar. He clarified that the party's loyalty "was with Ajit Pawar and now stands with Sunetra Pawar," indicating a clear shift in leadership following Ajit Pawar's tragic demise in a plane crash. Goyal further added that Sharad Pawar is unlikely to be invited to rejoin the NCP, citing a perceived loss of public trust and electoral support.
Sunetra Pawar Assumes Deputy Chief Minister Role
In a significant development, Sunetra Pawar, the wife of the late Ajit Pawar and leader of the NCP legislative party, was sworn in as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra on Saturday. The ceremony took place at Lok Bhavan in Mumbai, marking her formal assumption of the position left vacant by her husband's passing. This move solidifies her role within the state's political framework and the Mahayuti alliance.
Internal Party Dynamics and Merger Discussions
Senior leaders from Ajit Pawar's NCP faction have maintained a cautious silence regarding any potential reunification with the opposing NCP (SP) group led by Sharad Pawar. Conversely, representatives from the NCP (SP) have revealed that Ajit Pawar had been a strong proponent of merging the two factions. Sharad Pawar acknowledged that while negotiations were actively underway for four months, the process may now face significant obstacles due to the recent accident.
Sharad Pawar disclosed from Baramati that discussions between Ajit Pawar and NCP (SP) leader Jayant Patil had been progressing positively. "All discussions were held at their level, but it now appears the process may hit a roadblock following the accident. The talks were progressing in a positive direction, but the accident adversely affected the process," he stated. He emphasized that unifying the factions was a key wish of Ajit Pawar, which the NCP (SP) now aims to honor.
Jayant Patil's Insights on Merger Roadmap
Speaking from Ishwarpur, Jayant Patil confirmed that a concrete merger roadmap had been finalized in mid-January, with an official announcement originally planned for February 12. Patil noted that he held multiple discussions with Ajit Pawar, who was reportedly "very determined" to reconcile the two wings under Sharad Pawar's guidance. This highlights the depth of the negotiations and the personal commitment involved.
Focus on Alliance Stability and Future Directions
Senior NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal stressed that the party's immediate priority is to ensure the stability and longevity of the governing alliance between the BJP, NCP, and Shiv Sena. This focus on coalition durability suggests that internal merger talks may take a backseat to broader political strategies in Maharashtra.
The evolving situation underscores the complex interplay of leadership, legacy, and political strategy within the NCP, as the state navigates this period of transition and realignment.
