Sources confirm that the Sharad and Ajit Pawar factions of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) had reached an agreement for a party merger. The two factions had been coordinating closely, especially after contesting the Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad municipal elections together on a single symbol. A crucial meeting held about a week prior had finalized the plan, with 8 February set as the date for the formal announcement. The merger aimed to unify the party ahead of upcoming elections and consolidate its political influence in Maharashtra. However, the sudden demise of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has created uncertainty around the merger and leadership succession. Party leaders, including Sharad Pawar, Supriya Sule, Sunetra Pawar, and Parth Pawar, are now deliberating on next steps, including who will take over Ajit Pawar’s key ministries, particularly the finance portfolio. The NCP has indicated it intends to retain all portfolios previously held by Ajit Pawar. Meanwhile, discussions are ongoing within the party to determine leadership roles and ensure smooth functioning of government responsibilities. Despite the setback, the party remains committed to uniting its factions and maintaining political stability in the state.

