Following the tragic demise of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) president Ajit Pawar, the party has initiated formal consultations to determine his successor for the crucial Deputy Chief Minister position. The political vacuum has prompted urgent discussions within the party ranks, with leaders emphasizing the need for a swift yet thoughtful decision-making process.
High-Level Meeting with Chief Minister Fadnavis
A high-level delegation of NCP leaders, including Rajya Sabha MP and party working president Praful Patel, NCP state chief and Lok Sabha MP Sunil Tatkare, minister Chhagan Bhujbal, and MLA Dhananjay Munde, met with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday morning. The meeting focused on charting the next steps in the succession process and ensuring political stability in Maharashtra.
Praful Patel clarified the nature of the discussions, stating, "Preliminary discussions were held with Devendra Fadnavis today. We conveyed that a decision needs to be made as soon as possible. However, we will finalize our stance only after comprehensive consultations with our party legislators."
Legislative Party Meeting Expected Soon
According to party sources, the NCP legislative party is likely to convene within the next one to two days to deliberate on the Deputy CM appointment. This meeting is considered crucial for gathering input from elected representatives before making a final decision.
NCP's chief whip Anil Bhaidas Patil confirmed that the leadership is yet to finalize the exact timing of this important gathering. "We have not yet fixed the time and date of the meeting. It will be decided after further discussions with the party leadership," he explained.
Sunetra Pawar's Name in Contention
While the Pawar family has not officially confirmed any names, political circles are abuzz with speculation that Sunetra Pawar, wife of the late Ajit Pawar, might be proposed for the Deputy Chief Minister position. This possibility has gained traction among party workers who favor continuity within the family.
Patel addressed these rumors cautiously, stating, "We did not discuss Sunetra Pawar's name with Chief Minister Fadnavis; that remains an internal party matter. We are currently in a period of political mourning, and family rituals are ongoing. We plan to speak with Sunetra Pawar either tonight or tomorrow, after the family ceremonies conclude."
Balancing Urgency with Tradition
The party faces the delicate task of balancing the urgent need for political continuity with respect for mourning traditions and family rituals. Patel emphasized that while the vacancy would be filled at the earliest, the decision-making process must be proper and considerate of all sentiments.
Anil Bhaidas Patil acknowledged the sentiment among party workers, noting, "Party workers have expressed a preference for a family member to take up the position. However, these decisions ultimately rest with the party leadership after thorough consultation."
The NCP leadership has assured that a suitable decision will be reached soon, taking into account both political necessities and the emotional context following Ajit Pawar's untimely passing. The coming days are expected to bring clarity as the party navigates this significant transition in Maharashtra's political landscape.
