Speculation about a possible merger within the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) surfaced following the recent demise of former Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. However, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut has clarified that there is little chance of Ajit Pawar-led NCP merging with Sharad Pawar’s faction.
Raut stated that Sharad Pawar, one of India’s most senior political leaders with over six decades of legislative experience, is considering contesting the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections. He added that discussions on this matter are currently ongoing within the opposition alliance, Maha Vikas Aghadi. The final decision will be made collectively by the three parties in the alliance.
This year, along with Sharad Pawar, seven other members are set to retire from the Rajya Sabha. Given the current limited strength of Maha Vikas Aghadi, only one seat is likely to be contested, which positions Sharad Pawar as the likely candidate to return to the Upper House.
Meanwhile, Sharad Pawar was recently admitted to a Pune hospital with chest pain. His daughter, Supriya Sule, confirmed that he has now been discharged and will rest for three to four days. Political observers note that whether any NCP merger occurs will become clearer in the coming days as the situation unfolds.