Amid renewed speculation over a potential merger of the two Nationalist Congress Party factions, leaders from the NCP(SP) have asserted that discussions on reunification have been concluded and are awaiting a formal announcement. In contrast, the Ajit Pawar-led NCP has maintained a conspicuous silence on the issue, refusing to acknowledge any such decision.
NCP(SP) Leaders Detail Merger Plans and Ajit Pawar's Alleged Role
Senior NCP(SP) figures have come forward with claims that the merger was meticulously planned, with some stating it was almost finalized. Eknath Khadse, a prominent party leader, revealed that talks had been ongoing for several months. "It was almost decided that the merger would happen. There was a plan to announce merger," Khadse emphasized, highlighting the advanced stage of negotiations.
Statements from Key NCP(SP) Figures
Former home minister Anil Deshmukh added weight to these assertions by stating that Ajit Pawar himself desired the factions to reunite. "Ajit Pawar wanted a merger to happen. Jayant Patil also held meetings... We will decide after the municipal corporation elections. Both factions need to come together as per Ajit Dada's wish. This was his final wish, so steps should be taken accordingly," Deshmukh explained, underscoring the personal involvement of Ajit Pawar.
Further corroborating this, former minister and NCP(SP) leader Rajesh Tope claimed that the merger decision was taken in Ajit Pawar's presence. "We are the witness to it. Only the announcement was left, which was to be made after Zilla Parishad elections," Tope stated, suggesting a timeline for the formal declaration. Reports indicate that the announcement was planned for February 8, adding a specific date to the unfolding political drama.
NCP's Silence and Internal Confusion
Despite these bold claims from the NCP(SP) camp, sources within the Ajit Pawar-led NCP have painted a different picture. They clarified that only Ajit Pawar had engaged in talks with NCP(SP) chief Sharad Pawar, and there is no clarity within the party regarding any final decision. A party leader anonymously disclosed, "If at all the decision on merger was taken, none within the NCP were aware of it. Whether the announcement was after Zilla Parishad polls or anytime later was not known within the party." This internal confusion highlights the lack of consensus and transparency within the NCP faction.
Potential Implications of a Merger
A merger between the two factions could significantly reshape Maharashtra's political landscape. It would likely result in power-sharing arrangements, placing Sharad Pawar and Supriya Sule at the helm of a unified party. Additionally, senior leaders such as Jayant Patil, Shashikant Shinde, Eknath Khadse, and Anil Deshmukh would re-enter the political mainstream from the Opposition benches. Younger leaders, including Rohit Pawar and Rohit Patil, would also transition to the ruling side, potentially strengthening the party's base and influence.
Contradictory Statements from NCP Leaders
In response to the merger speculation, NCP state president Sunil Tatkare downplayed the talks, stating that the party's immediate priority is selecting its legislative party leader. He asserted that no other matters have been discussed, casting doubt on the veracity of the merger claims. Similarly, Maharashtra minister Chhagan Bhujbal minimized the importance of the merger discussions, focusing instead on filling the vacant post of deputy chief minister. "I am not sure about anything else," Bhujbal remarked, further muddying the waters.
The conflicting narratives from both factions have created a cloud of uncertainty, leaving political observers and the public eagerly awaiting further developments. As the situation evolves, the potential reunification of the NCP remains a topic of intense debate and speculation in Maharashtra's political circles.
