BJP to Mahayuti Allies: NCP (SP) Can Join NDA Only as Part of Unified NCP
- BJP insists on a unified NCP before the NCP (SP) can join the NDA.
- Multiple meetings between Devendra Fadnavis and NCP leaders have taken place.
- The merger plan could involve two Cabinet berths for the NCP in the Union government.
- Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare held a late-night meeting with the Maharashtra CM.
The Bharatiya Janata Party has made its stance clear to allies in the Mahayuti coalition: the NCP (Sharad Pawar) faction can only join the National Democratic Alliance if it merges with the Ajit Pawar-led NCP. This condition effectively pushes for a reunified Nationalist Congress Party under a single banner.
Two NCPs, One Merger Plan
The BJP's message comes amid a flurry of political activity in Maharashtra. Over the past week, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has held at least three meetings with leaders from both NCP factions.
Sources indicate the merger is being discussed as a way to consolidate anti-Congress votes and strengthen the NDA in the state. The plan reportedly includes offering the united NCP two Cabinet berths in the Union government, a significant incentive for the Sharad Pawar camp.
Late-Night Meeting Sparks Speculation
The buzz intensified after NCP leaders Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare met Chief Minister Eknath Shinde late at night. The meeting, which took place at the CM's residence, was kept under wraps initially.
Patel and Tatkare are key figures in the Ajit Pawar faction. Their unscheduled meeting with Shinde has led to speculation that a formal announcement could be imminent, though neither side has confirmed any details.
Why BJP Wants a United NCP
The BJP's push for a single NCP is strategic. With two separate NCPs, the anti-Congress vote in Maharashtra gets divided. A unified NCP under the NDA umbrella would consolidate this support.
Political analysts point out that a merger would also resolve the legal and organisational confusion over the party symbol and assets. The Election Commission had earlier recognised the Ajit Pawar faction as the real NCP, but the Sharad Pawar group continues to function as NCP (SP).
What Happens Next?
Ajit Pawar and Sharad Pawar are yet to react publicly to the BJP's conditions. However, sources say internal discussions within the NCP (SP) are underway. The coming week could see more closed-door meetings as the two factions work out the terms of a possible reunion.
For now, the ball is in the Pawars' court. Whether they agree to the merger or walk away from the NDA offer will determine the next chapter in Maharashtra's political chessboard.