BJP’s NCP merger plan sparks Pawar family battle as Parth Pawar resists deal

Mumbai: Political negotiations over a possible reunion of the two factions of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) have intensified in Maharashtra, with reports suggesting that the BJP has opened discussions for bringing the Sharad Pawar-led NCP (SP) into the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

According to sources, the BJP's reported condition for the alliance is that the two NCP factions — led by Sharad Pawar and Ajit Pawar — should first merge before joining the ruling coalition.

The discussions come nearly three years after the NCP split in 2023, when Ajit Pawar broke away from Sharad Pawar's party and joined the Maharashtra government led by the BJP and Shiv Sena faction.

BJP's reported merger formula

Sources claimed that the BJP has prepared a power-sharing arrangement to accommodate leaders from both NCP factions if a merger takes place.

Under the reported formula, both camps could receive representation at the Centre, with two Cabinet berths being considered — one for the Sharad Pawar faction and another for Ajit Pawar's group.

Supriya Sule, daughter of Sharad Pawar and a senior NCP (SP) leader, is reportedly being considered for a possible Cabinet role, while Praful Patel from the Ajit Pawar camp is also among those being discussed.

At the Maharashtra level, Jayant Patil is reportedly being considered for the Finance portfolio, a position earlier held by Ajit Pawar. Senior NCP leader Jitendra Awhad is also likely to receive a role in the state government, according to sources.

Parth Pawar raises concerns over merger

However, the reported merger plan has faced resistance within the Ajit Pawar faction. Sources said Parth Pawar, son of Ajit Pawar, and his mother Sunetra Pawar are concerned that a reunification could reduce their political influence within the party structure.

The issue has reportedly created tension within the Ajit Pawar camp, as the future role of the next generation of Pawar leaders remains uncertain.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis recently met Parth Pawar, with sources suggesting that the meeting was aimed at addressing concerns and maintaining unity within the faction.

Sharad Pawar's talks with BJP leaders

To facilitate negotiations, Sharad Pawar has reportedly assigned senior leader Jayant Patil to handle discussions. Patil has held meetings with BJP leaders, including national general secretary Vinod Tawde and Maharashtra leaders.

Sources also indicated that Patil has met representatives from the Ajit Pawar faction, including Sunil Tatkare and Praful Patel.

While no party has officially confirmed the merger talks, the series of meetings has fuelled speculation about a major political realignment in Maharashtra.

Sharad Pawar attacks Centre over Sonam Wangchuk protest

Amid the political developments, NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar also criticised the Centre over its handling of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike at Jantar Mantar.

Speaking in Baramati, Pawar accused the government of being a "bystander" instead of addressing the concerns raised by students. He said the protest reflected genuine demands and alleged that the government failed to engage with demonstrators.

Wangchuk was shifted to Safdarjung Hospital after his health deteriorated on the 21st day of his indefinite hunger strike. Delhi Police said the action was taken following Delhi High Court directions and medical advice.

Pawar said the issue would continue to be raised during the upcoming Parliament session, adding that the protest would not end simply because Wangchuk had been moved to hospital.

Background: NCP split and Maharashtra's political landscape

The NCP was divided in 2023 after Ajit Pawar and several MLAs joined the Maharashtra government, leading to a legal and political battle over the party's identity and symbol.

The Election Commission later recognised Ajit Pawar's faction as the official NCP, while Sharad Pawar's group continued as NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar).

A merger between the two factions, if it happens, would mark a significant shift in Maharashtra politics and could reshape alliances ahead of future elections.

However, questions remain over leadership, power-sharing and the political future of both generations of the Pawar family.