Ajit Pawar Engaged in Merger Talks with NCP SP Leaders Before His Passing

Hasan Mushrif revealed that Ajit Pawar was in discussions regarding a merger between NCP factions. Following Pawar's recent death, the party must now consult with BJP before making any decisions.

Senior NCP leader Hasan Mushrif acknowledged that the late Ajit Pawar was engaged in discussions with NCP SP leaders about merging the two factions. Mushrif, a cabinet minister in Maharashtra, mentioned this while speaking to reporters in Kolhapur. The situation has shifted following Ajit Pawar's death in an air crash last month, and any decision will require consulting the ruling ally BJP.

Merger Discussions and Changed Circumstances

Mushrif reiterated that Ajit Pawar was the sole leader discussing the merger of the two NCP factions. "I have said it many times that Ajit Pawar was discussing the merger of the two NCPs... no other leader from NCP was part of it. We are not claiming that no discussion about merger took place. But Now, after the demise of Ajit dada, the situation has changed. We will have to take BJP into confidence," he stated.

Consultation with Family and Party Leaders

The party plans to make decisions respecting the wishes of Ajit Pawar's wife, Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar. Mushrif shared that Ajit Pawar used to call them, suggesting that if both factions united, they should contest local body polls under one symbol. However, Mushrif claimed that beyond this, Ajit Pawar did not discuss the merger further.

Future Steps and Party Unity

NCP SP leaders, including Sharad Pawar, have expressed that Ajit Pawar was eager for party reunification. Despite this interest, NCP leaders have indicated they are not rushing to accelerate the process. The party's approach will be cautious and considerate of all stakeholders involved.

The evolving dynamics within the NCP highlight the need for careful deliberation before proceeding with any merger. The party aims to ensure alignment with its allies and respect for internal sentiments as it navigates these changes.

With inputs from PTI