The recent nomination of Rajendra Jain to the Rajya Sabha and Aniket Tatkare’s election to the state council have reinforced the authority of Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare within the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), led by Sunetra Pawar. As the party approaches its 27th anniversary on June 10, these developments highlight the continued influence of Patel and Tatkare within the organization.
A brief but intense effort to sideline Patel and Tatkare within the NCP had caused a significant rift in the party’s internal dynamics. The emergence of the “Pawar Gen-Next” group, centered around Parth Pawar and newly appointed party president Sunetra Pawar, had raised concerns about consolidating decision-making power within a close family circle.
Despite initial challenges, Patel and Tatkare swiftly maneuvered to reaffirm their control over the party’s structure, effectively countering attempts to diminish their roles. Their positions were clarified after a period of uncertainty, with the party spokesperson attributing any confusion to a clerical error.
In a strategic move, Tatkare secured the NCP’s nomination for his son Aniket, while Patel’s influence was reaffirmed through the selection of Rajendra Jain for the Rajya Sabha seat vacated by Sunetra Pawar. By ensuring key appointments aligned with their interests, Patel and Tatkare demonstrated their enduring significance within the party’s hierarchy.
