Stir over NCP merger intensifies in Maharashtra politics; Tatkare-Praful Patel faction in favor of merger; Sunetra and Parth Pawar oppose it!
Political stir over the potential merger of both factions of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) in Maharashtra seems to be intensifying. A faction led by senior party leaders Sunil Tatkare and Praful Patel is said to be in favor of reuniting both NCP factions. Meanwhile, Sunetra Pawar and her […]
This political discussion gained further momentum when Praful Patel reached Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai on Thursday evening to meet Sharad Pawar, who is admitted there. This meeting was described as a courtesy call, but in political circles, there is speculation that the two leaders discussed the potential merger of the NCP and the message conveyed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Sharad Pawar.
Merger talk increased after meeting with Amit Shah
Amidst discussions of internal differences within the NCP, several senior party leaders recently met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi. This delegation included leaders such as Praful Patel, Sunil Tatkare, Chhagan Bhujbal, Hasan Mushrif, Dilip Walse Patil, and Dhananjay Munde. It has emerged that the issue of the party's future, coordination within the organization, and the potential merger of both NCP factions was raised during the meeting.
According to sources, this faction desires that both groups come together and the united NCP remains a part of the NDA. However, no official decision on a merger has been announced by the party. Sunil Tatkare has previously publicly dismissed talk of a merger. As such, it is not yet clear if there is a consensus on this issue within the party.
Why are Sunetra and Parth Pawar opposing it?
The biggest challenge in the path of a merger is said to be regarding leadership and political control. The reason for the opposition from Sunetra Pawar and Parth Pawar is believed to be that in the event of a merger, their current influence and leadership roles within the party could be affected.
On the other hand, a section of senior leaders is demanding that more importance be given to experience and seniority in the organization. The absence of Sunetra and Parth from the meeting with Amit Shah has also fueled speculation about differences within the party. However, the NCP has also publicly clarified these discussions at different times.
What could be the benefit for the BJP?
From a political analysis perspective, both NCP factions coming together could become an opportunity for the BJP and the NDA to strengthen political equations in Maharashtra. Sharad Pawar has had long experience and influence in state politics. As such, if his faction joins the NDA, it could impact the equations of the opposition camp.
However, talk of all MPs or leaders of the Sharad Pawar faction joining the NDA is currently just speculation. Similarly, there has been no official confirmation of discussions regarding giving any specific leader a position in the Union Cabinet or the Maharashtra government in exchange for a merger.
What could the Sharad Pawar faction get?
If an agreement is ever reached between the two factions, issues like leadership, responsibilities in the organization, and a share in power will be the most important. Discussions could also take place regarding the roles of Supriya Sule and other senior leaders of the Sharad Pawar faction.
But discussions like Supriya Sule being given a ministerial post in the Union Cabinet or Jayant Patil being given the Finance Ministry in Maharashtra should currently be seen only as potential political equations. No formal announcement has been made regarding any position or responsibility.
Why is Sharad Pawar admitted to Breach Candy Hospital?
85-year-old Sharad Pawar was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai just hours after being discharged from Ruby Hall Clinic in Pune. He was kept in the hospital for further examination and treatment after suffering from a cough and a respiratory infection.
Hospital doctors stated that he has a respiratory infection with symptoms like bronchitis. He is undergoing treatment and his condition is reported to be stable.
Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had called to inquire about Sharad Pawar's health and advised him to rest. According to Sharad Pawar's close aide Vitthal Maniyar, during the conversation, the Prime Minister also mentioned Supriya Sule's ability to handle national responsibilities.
Currently, discussions regarding a potential reconciliation between the two NCP factions in Maharashtra politics are ongoing. After the meeting between Praful Patel and Sharad Pawar, eyes are now fixed on potential talks to be held after 10 November. However, whether a merger will happen or not and what terms both sides will agree to for it is not yet clear.
