He spoke at length on merger between two factions and the Ajit Pawar-led NCP's strategic shift since joining the National Democratic Alliance (NDA)
Sunil Tatkare. Pic/X
Maharashtra NCP Chief Sunil Tatkare has said that while he does not personally oppose a merger between the Ajit Pawar faction with NCP-SP, any such decision would be made collectively by the party leadership, reported news agency IANS.
NDA decision defended as long-term strategic move
He spoke at length on the merger between the two factions and the Ajit Pawar-led NCP's strategic shift since joining the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).
‘We remain firm with NDA despite criticism’
Tatkare defended the decision to join the NDA, noting that the move had been under internal discussion for years.
"We faced criticism for this role and continue to do so, but we remain firm in our decision to stay with the NDA," he said, reported IANS.
Cautious response on Sharad Pawar joining NDA
When asked if veteran leader Sharad Pawar should join the NDA, Tatkare remained guarded.
"I am not a big enough leader to advise Sharad Pawar on such matters; I know my limitations," he remarked, reported IANS.
Merger talks currently limited to select regions
Addressing Ajit Pawar's recent comments regarding a potential merger, Tatkare clarified that the sentiment is currently localised, particularly in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad.
He said that while Ajit Pawar has the authority to express views as NCP President, the matter has not formally reached the state leadership.
Swipe at Sanjay Shirsat over NDA remark
Tatkare also criticised Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Shirsat for suggesting Sharad Pawar might join the NDA, calling the statement unauthorised.
In a related development, Deputy CM Ajit Pawar said election commitments have delayed any serious consideration of a merger but acknowledged worker-level satisfaction with cooperation.
‘No permanent friends or enemies in politics’
Ajit Pawar reiterated that political alignments are fluid, leaving room for future decisions, reported IANS.
Ajit Pawar’s remarks reignited debate over a possible reunion with Sharad Pawar, especially after the Thackeray brothers’ reconciliation ahead of civic polls.
Local alliance fuels reunion buzz in Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad
Political interest has intensified as both NCP factions have announced a local-level alliance for ongoing municipal elections.
Analysts believe a reunion could significantly alter Maharashtra’s political equations by consolidating the Maratha vote bank.
(With inputs from IANS)
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