Sharad Pawar Responds to Fadnavis over NCP Merger Talks

Sharad Pawar, the leader of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), recently stated that Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is not involved in ongoing discussions regarding a merger between factions of the NCP. Pawar's remarks came during a press conference in Baramati, where he asserted that Fadnavis lacks the authority to comment on the merger, as he has not participated in any talks.

Pawar explained that discussions about the potential merger are being led by NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) leader Jayant Patil and his nephew Ajit Pawar, who served as Deputy Chief Minister until his tragic death in a plane crash on January 28. Pawar mentioned that following Ajit Pawar's death, the talks about merging the rival factions had reached an advanced stage. He noted that Ajit Pawar had intended to announce the reunification on February 12.

In response to comments made by Fadnavis, Sharad Pawar stated, "I do not understand what right he has to mention my name. As he was nowhere in the merger talks, he has no right to comment on it." Fadnavis had previously expressed skepticism about the legitimacy of the merger talks, implying that if they were genuine, Ajit Pawar would have kept him informed.

When asked about the possibility of the merger proceeding now, Sharad Pawar conveyed that their immediate focus is on mutual support and they will decide their future steps accordingly. He stressed that, regarding political discussions, they are currently not engaging with anyone outside of their two factions.

Additionally, Pawar addressed the topic of appointing Ajit Pawar's widow, Sunetra, as the new Deputy Chief Minister following the loss of her husband. He expressed happiness about her opportunity to serve in this position. However, he indicated that he had no prior knowledge of any plans for a memorial for Ajit Pawar at Vidya Pratishthan, the educational institution established by the Pawar family in Baramati. He noted, "I have read about it in the newspapers. There has been no discussion on it yet. We will sit together and decide."

This development comes amid a complex political landscape following the recent death of Ajit Pawar, which has heightened scrutiny on the leadership and future of the factions within the NCP. The attempts to merge the factions signal a significant effort to consolidate power and reaffirm unity within the party, especially as the political dynamics in Maharashtra continue to evolve.