From Our Bureau
NEW DELHI: The proposed merger between the two factions of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) in Maharashtra — one led by veteran leader Sharad Pawar and the other by his nephew and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar — is facing significant challenges as deep-rooted tensions resurface. Despite backchannel negotiations between the Pawar’s, sources suggest that the process is far from smooth and could be derailed by conflicting conditions and personal grievances.
Reliable sources indicate that close associates of Ajit Pawar are insisting on two non-negotiable conditions for the merger to move forward. First, they demand a public apology from leaders of the Sharad Pawar faction who previously levelled “derogatory and baseless” allegations against Ajit Pawar and other senior leaders. Second, they want all members of the Sharad Pawar-led NCP to formally acknowledge Ajit Pawar’s leadership post-merger.
These demands have not gone down well with the Sharad Pawar camp. A senior leader from that faction dismissed the conditions, stating that a merger based on ultimatums and pressure tactics is unacceptable. “The way Ajit’s group is trying to impose its will is undemocratic. Conditional unity cannot pave the way for lasting political cooperation,” the leader said, accusing the Ajit camp of bullying behaviour.
Political observers in Maharashtra are, however, unsurprised by the talks of reconciliation. Many leaders on both sides are believed to be more concerned with safeguarding their business interests than preserving ideological purity. Most of them are prominent cooperative barons who also own private sugar mills, construction firms, or contract-based enterprises. In the wake of a sluggish economy, their financial concerns are prompting them to consider strategic realignments to secure their commercial and political futures.
At the grassroots level, the looming uncertainty has triggered anxiety among party workers. With Sharad Pawar having distanced himself from active electoral politics, many in his faction are reportedly scouting for viable political options to ensure their survival in Maharashtra’s changing landscape.
The current state government, led by BJP’s Devendra Fadavis, appears stable and likely to complete its full five-year term. Against this backdrop, aligning with the ruling dispensation — directly or indirectly — is increasingly seen as a pragmatic move by many regional players.
Adding another layer to the speculation, some political analysts suggest that business interests might be influencing the course of events. Rumours are rife that Pawar’s growing proximity to corporate magnates — including those associated with the Adani Group — may be playing a role in softening his stance toward his nephew. These developments, though unofficial, have found traction in political circles and the media.
As merger discussions continue behind closed doors, the outcome remains uncertain. While political necessity may drive the two factions closer, unresolved grievances and ego clashes could prove to be significant obstacles. For now, Maharashtra’s political landscape remains fluid, with many watching closely to see whether family ties and business pragmatism will triumph over old wounds and ideological divides.
