Sat Jan 31 09:17:11 UTC 2026: ### NCP Faction Merger Plans Revealed Amidst Leadership Transition
The Story:
Following the death of Ajit Pawar on January 28, 2026, senior Nationalist Congress Party (NCP-SP) leader Jayant Patil claimed that leaders of the Ajit Pawar-led NCP faction, including Praful Patel, Sunil Tatkare, and Chhagan Bhujbal, were aware of a planned merger between the two factions. Patil stated that the merger was finalized around mid-January 2026 and initially scheduled to be announced in mid-February, but postponed due to scheduling conflicts. These revelations coincide with the oath ceremony of Sunetra Pawar, Ajit Pawar’s spouse and Rajya Sabha member, who is slated to be appointed as Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra.
Key Points:
* Jayant Patil claims senior Ajit Pawar-led NCP leaders knew about merger plans.
* The merger was reportedly finalized around mid-January 2026.
* Initial announcement was planned for mid-February, then postponed.
* Discussions included merging the two factions and putting “differences of the last 2.5 years behind.”
* Sharad Pawar claims he was unaware of the Deputy Chief Minister appointment decision.
* A video has surfaced of the January 17, 2026, meeting in Baramati discussing a possible merger.
* Sunetra Pawar is expected to be appointed Deputy Chief Minister.
Key Takeaways:
* The article highlights the internal dynamics and potential realignments within the NCP following Ajit Pawar’s death.
* The timing of the merger revelations during the leadership transition adds intrigue to the political landscape.
* The planned merger, if successful, could significantly alter the power dynamics within Maharashtra’s political sphere.
* The uncertainty surrounding Sharad Pawar’s knowledge of key decisions raises questions about transparency and internal communication within the party.
* The elevation of Sunetra Pawar to Deputy Chief Minister is poised to be a pivotal development shaping the party’s future trajectory.
Impact Analysis:
The revelations surrounding the planned NCP faction merger, coupled with Sunetra Pawar’s impending appointment as Deputy Chief Minister, carry profound long-term implications for Maharashtra’s political landscape. The potential unification of the NCP factions could consolidate the party’s strength and influence, potentially impacting future election outcomes and coalition formations. Furthermore, Sunetra Pawar’s rise to a prominent leadership position signifies a significant shift in the party’s leadership structure, potentially reshaping its policies and strategic direction. The dynamics between the reunited NCP and other major political players, such as the BJP, will be crucial in determining the stability and direction of the state government in the years to come. The revelations create an opportunity for the NCP to strengthen its base and create further unity.
First Piper 