NCP Merger Plan Allegedly Agreed Before Ajit Pawar's Death, Sparks Political Controversy
In a revelation that has stirred the political landscape of Maharashtra, NCP (SP) state chief Shashikant Shinde has claimed in a party magazine article that NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar had consented to merge the two factions of the Nationalist Congress Party, with former deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar slated to lead the unified entity. The announcement of this merger was reportedly scheduled for February 12, as stated in the February edition of the party mouthpiece, Rashtrawadi, which is dedicated to Ajit Pawar, who tragically died in an air crash on January 28.
Shinde's Article Details Alleged Reconciliation Efforts
Shinde's article elaborates that Ajit Pawar's departure from Sharad Pawar in 2023 was driven by what he described as "invisible forces, threats and a web of false allegations." According to the piece, Ajit Pawar was aware of these factors and had initiated steps over the last four to five months to rectify the situation. He engaged in discussions with senior leaders, including Sharad Pawar and Jayant Patil, to facilitate the merger of the two parties. Shinde further asserted that as a preliminary move toward reunification, Ajit Pawar intentionally coordinated alliances between the NCP factions in municipal corporation and Zilla Parishad elections.
The article states, "The decision to merge both parties on Feb 12 was taken in front of Sharad Pawar. Along with the merger, the decision to hand over the reins of the party post-merger to Ajit Pawar was taken by Sharad Pawar and all of us. The party workers also had a strong urge and hoped for it to happen. Ajit Pawar was strongly insisting, but his dream was cut off midway. Now, it is our responsibility to bring both parties together." Shinde could not be reached for comment, but his associates confirmed that he wrote the article after Ajit Pawar's demise, with the decision to dedicate the magazine edition to him made around the same time.
Tatkare Dismisses Claims as Politically Motivated
In response, NCP state president Sunil Tatkare strongly refuted Shinde's assertions during a press conference in Delhi, labeling them as "wrong and baseless." He objected to the implication that Ajit Pawar split from the party due to conspiracies or invisible forces. Tatkare emphasized that Ajit Pawar's inclination to align with the BJP was not a recent development, citing discussions from as early as 2014, which progressed in 2016-17, and his opinion in 2019 that a BJP-NCP alliance could ensure stability and central support for the state.
Tatkare warned that if Shinde continues to level such accusations post Ajit Pawar's death, he will respond appropriately as the state president. He suggested, "The article shows that Shinde wants to achieve something politically after Ajit Pawar's demise." This dismissal adds a layer of controversy, highlighting internal party tensions and differing narratives about the NCP's future direction.
Rohit Pawar Postpones Press Conference Amid Investigation Focus
Amidst this unfolding drama, NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar announced on Thursday that he has postponed a planned political press conference, originally set for February 12, to focus on meetings related to the investigation into the plane crash that claimed Ajit Pawar's life. In a statement, he said, "For us, the plane crash investigation is now the priority. Once that is addressed, I will hold the political press conference that I had planned for Feb 12." This delay underscores the ongoing impact of the tragedy on party activities and internal discussions.
The claims and counterclaims surrounding the alleged NCP merger plan reveal deep-seated divisions and strategic maneuvering within the party. As Shinde pushes for unity as a tribute to Ajit Pawar, Tatkare's rebuttal suggests a contentious path ahead, with political gains and legacy issues at stake. The situation remains fluid, with further developments expected as key figures like Rohit Pawar prepare to address the matter publicly in the future.
