The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) is reportedly moving towards a merger between the Sharad Pawar and Ajit Pawar factions. Sources indicate that just days before his untimely death, Ajit Pawar had agreed with Sharad Pawar on the need to unify the party, following discussions during recent meetings. Both leaders had previously coordinated in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad municipal elections, contesting on a single symbol, which had sparked speculation about a formal merger. According to sources, the decision for the merger was likely to be announced around February 8–9, shortly after the district council election results. Ajit Pawar had expressed his wish for the factions to come together to strengthen the party against an aggressive BJP presence in their strongholds. Following his demise, senior party leaders, including Sharad Pawar, Supriya Sule, Sunetra Pawar, and Parth Pawar, are expected to carry forward his vision and finalize the merger. Sunetra Pawar is reportedly being considered for a leadership role, and if appointed, it could expedite the merger process. Party insiders emphasize that the unification aligns with Ajit Pawar’s last wishes and the broader consensus among senior leaders, aiming to consolidate the party and avoid internal divisions.


