Following the death of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, speculation is rife about a potential reunion of the two Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) factions. While there are signs that reconciliation may be considered, sources suggest a formal merger may not be immediate.
BJP MP Calls for NCP Factions to Unite
BJP Rajya Sabha MP Dhananjay Mahadik urged the two NCP factions to come together, highlighting their combined strength of 40 MLAs and 10 MPs. Mahadik also recommended Sunetra Pawar for the Deputy Chief Minister post, noting her experience as a Rajya Sabha member and her potential to work effectively.
Appointment of Sunetra Pawar Almost Certain
Sources indicated on Thursday that Sunetra Pawar’s elevation to Deputy Chief Minister is highly likely. Senior NCP leaders are expected in Baramati on Friday to meet her and convene a gathering of party MLAs. At this meeting, a proposal will be moved to elect a party leader and recommend Sunetra Pawar as Deputy CM. A consent letter from the MLAs will then be sent to the Chief Minister and forwarded to the Governor for approval, after which she is expected to be sworn in.
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NCP Leaders Meet CM Devendra Fadnavis
Political activity intensified on January 30, when senior NCP leaders met Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis for around 90 minutes. Attendees included Chhagan Bhujbal, Praful Patel, Sunil Tatkare, and Dhananjay Munde. Praful Patel currently serves as NCP’s National Working President.
Sunetra Pawar’s Political Background
Sunetra Pawar, wife of Ajit Pawar, had contested the 2024 Lok Sabha elections from Baramati, facing Supriya Sule, daughter of Sharad Pawar and Ajit Pawar’s cousin. Sule won the seat, creating uncertainty over Sunetra Pawar’s political trajectory. Later, Ajit Pawar facilitated her entry into the Rajya Sabha, where she has served since June 25, 2025.
Merger Plans Preceding Ajit Pawar Death
According to NCP sources, Ajit Pawar and Sharad Pawar had reached an understanding on merging the two factions, with February 8 tentatively set for a formal announcement. However, these plans were disrupted following Ajit Pawar’s tragic death on January 28 at the age of 66.