Maharashtra’s political landscape is witnessing fast-paced and significant developments. On Wednesday, senior leader Ajit Pawar passed away in a tragic plane crash, sending shockwaves through the state’s political circles. In the aftermath, discussions have begun around appointing Sunetra Pawar as the new Deputy Chief Minister. At the same time, talks of a possible reunification of the two factions of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) have gained momentum.
Against this backdrop, several senior NCP leaders are actively engaged on multiple fronts. On Thursday, three prominent leaders of the party arrived at Varsha, the official residence of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis in Mumbai, for crucial discussions.
Senior minister Chhagan Bhujbal, NCP state president Sunil Tatkare, and also leader Praful Patel reached Varsha to meet the Chief Minister.
Sources indicate that the leaders are expected to press for the continuation of key ministerial portfolios with the NCP. Following Ajit Pawar’s demise, deliberations are underway regarding the allocation of the Finance Ministry and other departments previously held by him.
Meanwhile, voices within the NCP have expressed their wish for appointing Sunetra Pawar as Deputy Chief Minister in place of Ajit Pawar. However, the more complex issue remains the redistribution of the Finance Ministry and the remaining portfolios that Ajit Pawar handled. To resolve these matters, Bhujbal, Tatkare, and Patel reportedly met the Chief Minister at Varsha. Their reactions are expected shortly, which should provide greater clarity on the situation.
Discussions about reunifying the two factions of the NCP had intensified ahead of local body and municipal corporation elections. Ajit Pawar himself had hinted at the possibility in the past. Following his sudden demise, these talks are expected to gather further momentum. Leaders from both factions have begun indicating openness to reunification.
There is also uncertainty over who will present the upcoming state budget. Since the Finance portfolio has traditionally been with the NCP, the party is keen that one of its leaders retains the responsibility. However, there is also a possibility that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis may present the budget himself. These issues are likely to be discussed in detail during the meeting.
However, this has also sparked debate over the future political alignment of the NCP whether it will remain part of the ruling Mahayuti alliance or move towards the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi.
