A potential reunification of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) is reportedly in its final stages, according to Maharashtra Minister and Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Shirsat. Speaking on Sunday, Shirsat stated that the roles for various leaders within the merged entity would soon become clear, fueling speculation about a significant political development in the state.
These remarks follow a series of high-profile meetings involving key figures from both NCP factions. Parth Pawar, son of Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar and the late NCP leader Ajit Pawar, met with NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar at his Mumbai residence, Silver Oak, for nearly two hours on Sunday. This marked their second meeting in 48 hours, the first occurring shortly after Sharad Pawar's discharge from the hospital following treatment for a chest and respiratory infection.
High-Level Meetings Intensify Merger Speculation
Adding to the intense speculation, a meeting between Sharad Pawar and NCP national working president Praful Patel is anticipated after November 10. While leaders involved have publicly downplayed detailed discussions about a merger, the frequency and nature of these interactions suggest otherwise. Patel, speaking from Gondia, described his recent hospital visit to Sharad Pawar as primarily a courtesy call, though he acknowledged brief discussions on political developments and confirmed plans for another meeting.
The developments come against a backdrop of reported discontent within the party, including concerns over Parth Pawar’s increasing influence and recent organizational appointments. Furthermore, Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently met with seven NCP leaders, including Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare, in Delhi, adding another layer to the complex political maneuvering.
Context of the NCP Split
The Nationalist Congress Party officially split in 2023. Ajit Pawar's faction subsequently joined the Mahayuti government, retaining the original party name and symbol. Sharad Pawar's group then became known as the NCP (SP). Shiv Sena leader Tatkare had previously indicated that a merger might have occurred earlier, in February, had Ajit Pawar not tragically died in a plane crash in January of the same year.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has maintained that both NCP factions are independent entities, free to make their own decisions regarding their political future.