NEW DELHI: Maharashtra minister Chhagan Bhujbal on Friday said there was no concrete decision on the proposed merger of the two NCP factions, with discussions still at a preliminary stage.The remarks came amid speculation about a possible merger between the NCP led by Sunetra Pawar and the Sharad Pawar-led NCP (SP)."Both NCP factions coming together is a wish shared by many of us, but the question is how it can happen and who should take the initiative," Bhujbal said."There is no final decision yet. It is only discussions. We don't know what NCP (SP) wants," he added.The veteran NCP leader said any decision on the merger would require consultations with the party leadership and its allies in the BJP-led NDA. Bhujbal said the two factions had different political alignments, with one part of the BJP-led NDA and the other associated with the opposition INDIA bloc. He added that reconciling the political expectations and interests of leaders from both sides would be complicated."We (NCP) are in the government with them. We cannot take any step without consulting them. Their consent will…
'No final decision yet': Bhujbal says NCP merger talks at preliminary stage
In short
Internal talks to unite Sunetra Pawar's NCP faction with the Sharad Pawar-led NCP (SP) remain preliminary, with neither side agreeing on terms or leadership. A potential reunion is complicated because the factions sit on opposing sides of the political aisle in the NDA and INDIA blocs. Chhagan Bhujbal noted that political dynamics shifted dramatically following the sudden death of Ajit Pawar, who had previously met with Sharad Pawar and Supriya Sule in Baramati. Sunetra Pawar, who took over as party president, must now reassure members as lawmakers and district heads weigh the final decision.
Key points
- A factional merger cannot move forward without consulting and securing consent from exist…: A factional merger cannot move forward without consulting and securing consent from existing ruling coalition allies.
- Party leaders must reconcile conflicting member expectations and determine who would lead…: Party leaders must reconcile conflicting member expectations and determine who would lead a reunited organization.
- Final decisions regarding the merger will rest with the party leadership, lawmakers, and…: Final decisions regarding the merger will rest with the party leadership, lawmakers, and district heads.