Maharashtra politics is abuzz with speculation about a potential reunion within the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), as leaders from both factions express hope for reconciliation between Sharad Pawar, the NCP (SP) chief, and his nephew, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar.
On New Year’s Day, Ajit Pawar’s mother, Asha Pawar, visited the Vithal-Rukmini temple in Pandharpur and voiced her heartfelt wish: “All disputes should end… Sharad Pawar and Ajit Pawar should reunite.” Speaking to reporters, she added that she had prayed for “all wishes of Ajit Pawar” to come true.
Praful Patel: “Sharad Pawar Is Our Deity”
Senior NCP leader and Ajit faction member Praful Patel shared his views on the matter, saying, “Sharad Pawar is our deity. We have a high degree of respect for him. If the Pawar family comes together, it will make us extremely happy. I consider myself a member of the Pawar family.”
Leaders Echo Sentiments for Unity
Narhari Zirwal, an NCP MLA, acknowledged the challenges of leaving Sharad Pawar after the split in June 2023. “It felt odd to have left Sharad Pawar saheb. Many feel likewise. I will go to him and urge him and Ajit to come together. Pawar saheb has been tirelessly working for people, and he continues to do so,” Zirwal said.
NCP spokesperson Amol Mitkari also expressed optimism, suggesting that unity could be achieved if both sides made an effort. However, he noted potential obstacles, particularly from leaders like Jitendra Awhad and Rohit Pawar, who are close to Sharad Pawar. “They will never like the two coming together… But Asha tai’s prayers are the prayer of every karyakarta of both NCP groups,” Mitkari stated.
Differing Views from the Sharad Pawar Camp
Jitendra Awhad remained neutral, emphasizing that it was a decision for the Pawar family. “If Asha Pawar is saying that Pawars should come together, then what can I say? It is their family matter. They will have to take the call,” he remarked.
BJP: No Objection to a Reunion
The BJP, which is currently allied with Ajit Pawar’s faction, also weighed in on the issue. State BJP president Chandrashekhar Bawankule dismissed concerns of political friction, saying, “If the two Pawars are coming together, there is no reason for the BJP to object. They have to decide.”
Background: The NCP Split
Ajit Pawar’s decision to split from the NCP in June 2023 and join the Mahayuti government, allying with the BJP and Shiv Sena, created a significant rift within the party. With over 40 MLAs supporting Ajit, the split marked a turning point in Maharashtra’s political landscape.