“Key NCP Decisions Are Being Taken in Mumbai, Not in Consultation With Me”: Sharad Pawar Breaks Silence

Baramati: Three days after the tragic demise of senior NCP leader Ajit Pawar, party founder Sharad Pawar on Friday broke his silence on the rapidly unfolding political developments, including the reported elevation of Sunetra Pawar as Deputy Chief Minister and the possible merger of the two factions of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP).

Addressing a press conference in Baramati, Sharad Pawar said that major organisational and political decisions are currently being taken in Mumbai without consulting him. He clarified that while there is no discord within the family, he was neither informed nor consulted about Sunetra Pawar’s induction as Deputy Chief Minister.

Merger Talks Were at an Advanced Stage

Sharad Pawar revealed that discussions regarding the merger of the two NCP factions had progressed significantly and that Ajit Pawar himself was keen on unifying the party.

“Ajit Pawar, along with leaders like Shashikant Shinde and Jayant Patil, had initiated talks for the merger. Even the date was finalised—February 12. Unfortunately, Ajit passed away before this could materialise,” Pawar said, adding that he now intends to honour his nephew’s wish of party unity.

When asked whether a merged NCP would continue as part of the NDA, Sharad Pawar dismissed the speculation, saying such narratives were being driven by media conjecture and had no factual basis at present.

‘Family Is United, Politics Is Separate’

Responding to questions about internal family dynamics following Ajit Pawar’s death, Sharad Pawar said, “When a major tragedy strikes, the family stands united. At this moment, there is no issue within the family.”

However, he pointed out that political and organisational decisions are being handled by senior leaders such as Praful Patel, Sunil Tatkare and others, and he chose not to comment on their actions.

Emotional Tribute to Ajit Pawar

During the press interaction, Sharad Pawar paid an emotional tribute to his nephew, describing Ajit Pawar as a capable, committed and people-centric leader.

“He had a deep understanding of public issues and always worked to ensure justice. The people of Baramati stood firmly with him, and he never shied away from responsibilities,” Pawar said. He expressed confidence that the next generation of the Pawar family would carry forward Ajit Pawar’s political legacy and work ethic.

Political Developments Continue

Meanwhile, Sunetra Pawar arrived in Mumbai on Saturday morning with her son Parth Pawar. Sources indicate that she may take oath as Deputy Chief Minister later in the evening. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has already stated that the state government will support decisions taken within the NCP.

As Maharashtra’s political landscape continues to shift rapidly, Sharad Pawar’s remarks have added a new layer of complexity to the evolving power dynamics within the party.