The NCP, a major force in Maharashtra politics, split in 2023 after Ajit Pawar broke away with a majority of MLAs to join the BJP-Shiv Sena government, becoming Deputy Chief Minister. This led to a bitter battle over the party’s name and symbol, with the Election Commission eventually recognizing Ajit Pawar’s faction as the official NCP.
Supriya Sule, as working president of the Sharad Pawar-led NCP (SP), has been vocal about the events that led to the split. She has stated that Ajit Pawar could have led the party if he had simply asked, but instead chose to align with the BJP, disrupting the party and family unity.
Recent statements by Sharad Pawar and developments within both factions have reignited talks of a possible merger. Some leaders and MLAs from both sides have openly expressed support for reuniting the party, emphasizing the need for unity to strengthen their position in Maharashtra politics.
Ajit Pawar’s mother has publicly prayed for reconciliation, and several senior leaders have indicated that discussions are underway to explore a merger. Sources suggest that the groundwork for a reunion is being laid, with meetings taking place in Mumbai and Delhi to finalize any potential alliance.
Amid these developments, Supriya Sule’s role has become pivotal. As the working president and a respected MP from Baramati, her stance will heavily influence the direction of the Sharad Pawar faction. Reports indicate that any final decision on unity or merger will be made by her, in consultation with senior party colleagues and Sharad Pawar himself.
Sule has also made it clear that while she is open to dialogue, she distrusts the BJP’s senior leadership and rules out any alliance with them, emphasizing that the party’s core values and reputation must be preserved.
Sharad Pawar’s recent statement that “there is no difference between Congress and us” and his openness to merging with like-minded parties has added to the speculation. However, he also stressed that any strategic decision would be made collectively, not unilaterally, hinting that Supriya Sule and other senior leaders will have the final say.
