Senior leader Sharad Pawar on Wednesday clarified the speculation surrounding a possible merger of the two factions of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), clarifying that while discussions had taken place, no final decision had been reached.
Reports had suggested that the late Ajit Pawar was in favor of uniting both NCP factions and that an announcement was expected on February 12. However, leaders from Ajit Pawar’s faction have denied these claims, asserting that no such merger talks were held and that any understanding was limited to the upcoming municipal elections.
Earlier, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis questioned the credibility of the merger reports, stating that Ajit Pawar would have informed him if such discussions had taken place.
Responding to these remarks, Sharad Pawar said there was no reason for the Chief Minister to bring his name into the discussion. He added that Fadnavis had no direct role in the matter and, therefore, no authority to comment on it. Pawar further noted that Ajit Pawar and senior NCP leader Jayant Patil had indeed held discussions regarding a possible merger, but nothing beyond that.
“At present, our entire focus is on taking care of everyone and moving forward together with those who are grieving. As of now, there is no discussion at all about any political decisions,” he added.
Fadnavis earlier stated that he had no information about any date being fixed for a merger between the two NCP factions. “I do not know what exactly was discussed between Ajit Pawar and Sharad Pawar. I am also unaware of any date being finalised. Given the tragic circumstances, I do not think it is appropriate to indulge in politics over this issue.
Otherwise, I too could say many things, but I will refrain,” the Chief Minister said.
He further added that both NCP factions function as independent political parties and make their own decisions. “We have no interference in their internal matters. However, Ajit Pawar’s party is part of the government. If such a major decision was being considered, discussions with us would have certainly taken place. If talks were ongoing, does that mean they were planning to exit the government? The government remains stable,” Fadnavis added.
Ajit Pawar, 66, died on the morning of January 28 when the aircraft carrying him crashed while attempting to land at Baramati Airport in Pune district. NCP leader Sunetra Pawar, widow of the late Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister, stepped in to fill the post that became vacant following Ajit Pawar’s demise.
