NCP Meetings With Fadnavis Fuel NDA Buzz
Late-night meetings between Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and senior leaders from both Nationalist Congress Party factions have renewed speculation over possible political realignments. However, no leader involved has confirmed that an alliance, merger or change of political position was discussed.
Jayant Patil Meets Sharad Pawar and Fadnavis
NCP (SP) Maharashtra president Jayant Patil first met party chief Sharad Pawar at his Silver Oak residence in Mumbai before holding a separate meeting with Fadnavis on Tuesday evening.
Neither Patil nor the Chief Minister’s Office disclosed the agenda of their discussion. Leaders from both the ruling and Opposition NCP factions also said they were unaware of the subjects discussed during the meetings.
Ruling NCP leaders Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare separately met Fadnavis on the same night, adding to speculation surrounding the future of both factions.
NCP SP Faces Pressure Over NDA Shift
The Sharad Pawar-led NCP (SP) has faced growing questions over whether it should continue with the Opposition or explore an understanding with the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance.
Reports indicate that several of the party’s 10 Maharashtra MLAs favour joining the ruling alliance, citing difficulties in securing development funds and administrative approvals while remaining in Opposition.
Sharad Pawar has not publicly indicated any decision. The party currently has eight Lok Sabha MPs, giving it significance in parliamentary calculations ahead of major proposed legislation.
Ruling NCP Faces Internal Leadership Unease
The meetings also came amid internal developments within the Ajit Pawar-founded NCP, now headed by Sunetra Pawar.
A former party office-bearer has challenged Sunetra Pawar’s election as national president, alleging irregularities in the organisational process. Tatkare has rejected the allegations and maintained that the party remains united behind her leadership.
The political speculation continues despite Fadnavis recently stating that the BJP was not considering the entry of any new party into Maharashtra’s NDA alliance.
