NCP Merger Unlikely for Now: Ajit Pawar Faction Prefers Delay, Sharad Pawar Camp Pushes for Unity

Mumbai:
The possibility of a merger between the two factions of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) appears uncertain for the time being, with the Ajit Pawar faction unwilling to take an immediate call, even as the Sharad Pawar-led NCP (SP) presses for swift unification.

The debate over reunification gained momentum following the tragic death of former Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in a plane crash, triggering renewed political churn within the party. However, party insiders indicate that a final decision on the merger has been deferred due to unresolved leadership concerns.

Leadership Question at the Core

Sources within the Ajit Pawar faction suggest that the group wants Sunetra Pawar to first consolidate her hold within the party before any merger talks progress. Leaders in this camp fear that an early merger would effectively place the party’s reins back in the hands of Sharad Pawar, sidelining Sunetra Pawar despite her elevated political stature.

“An immediate merger would mean that key decisions will ultimately be taken by Sharad Pawar. That is not acceptable to many within our faction,” a senior NCP leader said on condition of anonymity.

Support Builds for Sunetra Pawar

The internal power struggle became more visible after former minister and NCP MLA Manikrao Kokate publicly backed Sunetra Pawar to take over party leadership.
“Ajit Dada’s successor should be from his family. We stand firmly with Sunetra Pawar. There is no question of looking beyond her for leadership,” Kokate asserted.

This endorsement is being seen as a clear signal that a significant section of the Ajit Pawar camp wants continuity of control within the family, rather than a merger that could dilute their authority.

Fear of Losing Control Post-Merger

Leaders from the Ajit Pawar group insist they are not opposed to a merger in principle, but stress that timing is crucial.
“The fundamental dispute between Ajit Pawar and Sharad Pawar was always about who controls the party. That issue has not disappeared,” said another leader, adding that while the Pawar family remains united emotionally, the political decision will rest with Sunetra Pawar.

Emotional Pitch from Sharad Pawar Camp

On the other hand, the Sharad Pawar-led faction has adopted a strong emotional appeal, claiming that party unity was Ajit Pawar’s final wish.
Senior NCP (SP) leader Anil Deshmukh stated that both factions must move forward with the merger.
“Ajit Dada wanted the party to remain united. Respecting his last wish should be our collective responsibility,” Deshmukh said.

Merger Talks in Limbo

While backchannel discussions continue, political observers believe that the leadership question and control over party decision-making remain the biggest roadblocks. Until clarity emerges on Sunetra Pawar’s role and authority, a reunion of the two NCP factions is unlikely in the immediate future.