Maharashtra Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) president, Sunil Tatkare, clarified that discussions about merging the two NCP factions had changed significantly following Ajit Pawar’s death. Tatkare, in an interview, criticized the timing of leaders discussing the merger while Ajit Pawar’s last rites were ongoing. He highlighted the difference in context between a merger while Ajit Pawar was alive versus after his passing.
Tatkare questioned the feasibility of the merger and emphasized the party’s current alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party in the National Democratic Alliance. He shared personal anecdotes about his relationship with Ajit Pawar and the emotional impact of his loss. Tatkare also discussed the party’s decision on succession and the collective choice to nominate Sunetra Pawar as Ajit Pawar’s successor.
Reflecting on Ajit Pawar’s legacy, Tatkare stressed the importance of continuing his vision with determination. He mentioned the collective decision-making process involving senior leaders like Praful Patel, Hasan Mushrif, Dhananjay Munde, and Chhagan Bhujbal. Tatkare underlined the need for approvals from the Chief Minister and senior BJP leadership for the succession plan.
