NCP Leaders Rally Behind Sunetra Pawar on Potential Merger with NCP (SP) Faction
In a significant development within the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), key members have publicly expressed their support for Sunetra Pawar's decision-making authority regarding a possible merger with the NCP (Sharad Pawar) faction. This comes amidst conflicting statements from the party's senior leadership, who maintain that no formal discussions on integration have taken place.
Statements from Key NCP Figures
Cabinet Minister Hasan Mushrif, while interacting with reporters in Kolhapur on Saturday, clarified the situation. "Only Ajit Pawar was involved in the discussions on the merger issue," Mushrif stated. "The rest of the members from our party were not a part of those meetings." He emphasized that if Sunetra Pawar, other family members, and the NCP leadership favor the merger, there should be no objections. "If she takes a call, we will have to follow it," Mushrif added, highlighting the deference to her position.
Maval MLA Sunil Shelke, a close associate of the late Ajit Pawar, echoed this sentiment. "Whatever decision she takes, we will support her," Shelke affirmed. He noted that Sunetra Pawar is set to begin her duties as Deputy Chief Minister next week, after which the merger issue is expected to be discussed. "Since we are a part of the NDA, Sunetra Vahini will have to discuss the issue with our alliance partners in the state as well as their central leadership," Shelke explained, pointing to the broader political implications within the National Democratic Alliance.
Contrasting Views from Senior Leadership
Despite these supportive statements, the NCP's senior leadership has maintained a different stance. They have asserted that Ajit Pawar did not engage in any discussions about integrating the outfit with Sharad Pawar's faction. This discrepancy underscores the internal dynamics and potential divisions within the party as it navigates this critical issue.
The situation highlights the evolving power structure within the NCP, with Sunetra Pawar emerging as a central figure in decision-making processes. Her upcoming role as Deputy Chief Minister is poised to influence the party's direction, particularly regarding alliances and mergers. The support from figures like Mushrif and Shelke suggests a consolidation of her authority, even as senior leaders distance themselves from prior merger talks.
As the NCP prepares for Sunetra Pawar's formal assumption of office, all eyes will be on how she addresses the merger proposal with the NCP (SP) faction. The involvement of NDA partners at both state and central levels adds another layer of complexity to the deliberations, making this a pivotal moment for Maharashtra's political landscape.
