BJP Pushes for Merger with NCP, Sunetra and Parth Pawar Oppose

Mumbai, India Jul 18, 2026 ALN: The ongoing political landscape in Maharashtra has become increasingly complex as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) pushes for a merger between the two factions of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). This situation has generated considerable speculation and debate, particularly given the contrasting positions held by key leaders within the party. The NCP, traditionally a significant player in Maharashtra politics, is currently divided into two factions: one led by Sharad Pawar and the other by Sunetra Pawar, who is the daughter-in-law of the veteran politician.

At the heart of this political maneuvering is the BJP's desire to consolidate the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) by unifying the NCP factions. The BJP's strategy appears to be motivated by the need to strengthen its legislative position in Parliament, particularly in light of upcoming votes on critical bills, including proposed constitutional amendments aimed at increasing women's representation in legislative bodies and revising electoral boundaries through delimitation.

The NCP has historically been a significant ally of the Congress party, but its alignment has shifted over time, particularly with the rise of the BJP. Currently, the faction led by Sharad Pawar is part of the opposition coalition known as the INDIA bloc, while Sunetra Pawar's faction is aligned with the NDA. This division underscores the broader political realignment occurring in Maharashtra and across India, where regional parties are reassessing their alliances in response to the BJP's growing influence.

Sunetra Pawar and her son, Rajya Sabha MP Parth Pawar, have expressed strong opposition to the merger, citing concerns that it would enable Sharad Pawar and his daughter, Supriya Sule, to regain control over the party. This fear is rooted in the historical context of the NCP, where leadership has often been centralized within the Pawar family. The aide's comments highlight the internal struggle for power within the party, revealing deep-seated anxieties about the future direction of the NCP.

Amidst this backdrop, recent meetings between Parth Pawar and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis have drawn attention. Parth's inquiry about discussions between Fadnavis and leaders from the rival NCP faction indicates the complexities of negotiations and the delicate balance of power within the party. Fadnavis's refusal to divulge details suggests an ongoing strategy to mediate between competing interests within the NCP while ensuring the BJP's objectives are met.

Should the merger proceed, it is anticipated that Sunetra Pawar would seek to retain her deputy chief minister position and her role as party chief. This potential arrangement reflects the broader negotiations within the BJP, which has reportedly offered cabinet positions to both factions in a bid to facilitate the merger. The BJP's approach appears to be both strategic and pragmatic, aiming to bolster its legislative strength while also appeasing dissenting voices within the NCP.

Supriya Sule's comments regarding the potential support for legislation contingent on a uniform increase in Lok Sabha seats further illustrate the complexities of the current political climate. Her remarks indicate a willingness to engage in negotiations but also signal the need for consensus within the party on key issues. This balancing act is essential as the BJP prepares for the monsoon session of Parliament, where it intends to push forward with previously stalled legislative initiatives.

The internal dynamics of the NCP have been further complicated by the recent death of former deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar, who was a pivotal figure in the party. His passing has left a leadership vacuum that has exacerbated existing fissures within the party. The resulting uncertainty has led to concerns among party legislators about the effectiveness of the Sunetra-Parth leadership, especially in comparison to seasoned politicians like Fadnavis and Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde, who are part of the NDA coalition.

As Parth Pawar attempts to consolidate power and form a cohesive team, there are indications that some party leaders are seeking to isolate the current leadership. This maneuvering has raised alarms among MLAs, many of whom are questioning the viability of the Sunetra-Parth combination as a leadership duo capable of navigating the challenges ahead. The internal dissent highlights the fragility of the NCP's current structure and the potential for further fragmentation if a resolution is not reached.

Despite the tumultuous atmosphere, efforts to rally support for the merger continue. Reports suggest that several MLAs are open to the idea of a merger if it leads to Sharad Pawar's return to the NDA. However, the prospect of an immediate coup within the NCP has been dismissed by party insiders, indicating a recognition of the need for a more measured approach to the ongoing negotiations.

Officially, both factions have denied any ongoing merger talks, with Supriya Sule emphasizing that previous discussions were derailed by internal opposition following her brother Ajit Pawar's death. This statement underscores the emotional and political complexities surrounding the issue, as the party grapples with the loss of a significant leader while also contending with the shifting political landscape.

NCP Maharashtra president Sunil Tatkare's cautious stance on the matter reflects the uncertainty that permeates the party's current situation. His acknowledgment that political dynamics can change rapidly suggests a recognition of the fluid nature of alliances and the potential for unexpected developments in the coming days.

In conclusion, the ongoing discussions surrounding the potential merger of the NCP factions represent a critical juncture for the party and its leaders. As the BJP seeks to solidify its power within the NDA and advance its legislative agenda, the NCP must navigate its internal divisions and external pressures. The outcome of these negotiations could have significant implications for the future of Maharashtra politics, as well as for the broader political landscape in India as parties reassess their alliances and strategies in response to the evolving political environment.