BJP : Seen as Obstacle to NCP Reunification Talks in Maharashtra

BJP: Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut on Saturday said the Bharatiya Janata Party had become a major roadblock to the possible reunion of the two Nationalist Congress Party factions in Maharashtra. Speaking in Mumbai, Raut suggested that political circumstances had changed significantly after the death of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, complicating any prospects of unity.

BJP’s Role in Merger Speculation

Addressing reporters, Raut argued that the merger could have materialised while Ajit Pawar was still alive. According to him, the current situation has altered the political landscape to such an extent that a reconciliation between the two NCP factions now appears uncertain. He accused the BJP of engaging in politics at sensitive moments, claiming that the party’s actions had influenced the breakdown of merger efforts.

Raut maintained that his remarks were based solely on developments that unfolded within the BJP’s political context, adding that earlier conditions were more favourable for dialogue and compromise.

Views from Within the NCP

Reactions from NCP leaders have been mixed. Ajit Pawar’s close aide, Kiran Gujar, said earlier that the late leader had been keen on bringing the divided factions back together. However, NCP MLA Anil Patil stated that the option of reunification is effectively off the table following Pawar’s death, at least for the time being.

Patil indicated that party leaders would still hold internal discussions and consult allies within the National Democratic Alliance before taking any further steps, suggesting that the matter remains sensitive and unresolved.

Leadership Decisions and Internal Autonomy

When asked about remarks by NCP (SCP) chief Sharad Pawar, who said he had no information about any proposal to elevate Ajit Pawar’s widow Sunetra Pawar to the post of Deputy Chief Minister, Raut stressed the independence of the NCP faction led by Ajit Pawar.

According to Raut, leadership choices within that group are internal matters. He said discussions had taken place and a decision was in progress, emphasising that external parties had no role in determining the outcome.

Debate Over Sunetra Pawar’s Name

Raut acknowledged hearing reports that Sunetra Pawar could be proposed as the Legislative Party Leader. He noted that Maharashtra was still coping with the shock of Ajit Pawar’s death and said the timing of such deliberations was a matter for the party concerned.

He also pointed out that senior national leaders such as Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare would take decisions based on their judgment, underscoring that any final call would reflect internal consensus.

Meetings and Political Consultations

NCP leaders are expected to meet soon to formally discuss backing Sunetra Pawar for the Legislative Party Leader position and the Deputy Chief Minister’s role. State party president Sunil Tatkare has said the ultimate decision would rest with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

At the same time, NCP-SCP leaders gathered at Sharad Pawar’s residence in Baramati to outline future strategies following Ajit Pawar’s sudden demise.

Merger Talks Put on Hold

The meeting followed Sharad Pawar’s dismissal of speculation about an imminent merger between the two NCP factions. A significant discussion reportedly took place on January 17 between Sharad and Ajit Pawar, believed to be their last detailed conversation on reunification.

Sources indicated that the factions had held seven meetings involving senior leaders such as Jayant Patil and Supriya Sule, with a roadmap prepared for a unified party. Ajit Pawar was expected to announce the merger on February 12, but his unexpected death halted the process.

Ajit Pawar died on Wednesday after a chartered aircraft carrying him made a crash landing in Baramati. His personal security officer, a flight attendant, and two pilots were also among those who lost their lives.