Mumbai, May 14
Amid reports of a merger or tie-up between the two factions ahead of the upcoming civic and local body elections, both the NCP and NCP (SP) have categorically submitted on Wednesday there has been no talks or initiatives in this regard.
NCP chief spokesperson Anand Paranjape set the tone saying: "As far as the news about merger or both factions will come together, no proposal has come from the NCP (SP). Whenever the proposal comes from the Sharad Pawar led party, the national president Ajit Pawar, working president Praful Patel, state party chief Sunil Tatkare and the core committee members will consider the proposal and take its decision. I reiterate no proposal has come from the NCP (SP) and therefore in the near future there is no state wherein both the parties will merge or come together."
NCP working president Praful Patel has recently ruled out the possibility of both NCP factions coming together saying that the issue has not been under discussion.
On the other hand, former minister and veteran NCP (SP) leader Eknath Khadse said: "Those who wanted to leave the party have already taken their decision. There is no possibility of any merger or both factions coming together at this juncture. However, the decision taken by our president Sharad Pawar will be acceptable to us."
Incidentally, state executive of the NCP (SP) held a marathon meeting today in the presence of the state unit chief Jayant Patil.
The NCP (SP) has not considered a possible merger or tie up with Ajit Pawar led NCP. Instead, the statement released by the chief spokesperson Mahesh Tapase clearly said that the party discussed a comprehensive road map for its future initiatives and electoral strategy.
"Jayant Patil laid out the party's immediate priorities, emphasising robust preparedness for the upcoming local self-government elections. He urged all district and taluka-level units to gear up at the grassroots level and strengthen booth-wise machinery to ensure electoral success. The state party chief further said that there is a need to expose the rampant corruption prevailing in various government offices under the current regime. The NCP(SP) is committed to fighting for transparency, accountability, and justice for the common man & party cadre should address the same," said Tapase in his statement
"In a bid to empower the new generation, the party will actively work to strengthen its Youth and Women's Wings by enrolling enthusiastic new volunteers, ensuring greater representation and dynamic participation in political processes. The leadership has also decided to undertake statewide tours, wherein senior leaders will engage with citizens, listen to their grievances, and highlight the anti-people policies of the present government. Special attention will be given to addressing farmers' distress, unemployment among the youth, and other burning issues affecting the daily lives of people across Maharashtra," said Tapase.
Tapase said that the state party chief also hinted at fresh appointments and restructuring if needed aimed at energising the cadre and making the party more agile and responsive.
— IANS
Reader Comments
This split in NCP is really unfortunate for Maharashtra politics. Both factions have capable leaders but their energy is getting wasted in this infighting. Hope they find common ground before elections for the state's benefit 🤞
As a young voter, I'm glad NCP(SP) is focusing on youth empowerment. But they need to show concrete actions, not just statements. Maharashtra needs fresh ideas, not the same old political drama between uncle and nephew!
Both factions should stop this drama and merge already! Political parties splitting like this only weakens democracy. Look at how BJP has grown by staying united. NCP needs to learn this lesson fast.
The focus on farmers' distress and unemployment is good, but I've heard these promises before elections many times. Will this time be different? Actions speak louder than press releases. Show us what you'll actually do!
Sharad Pawar is a veteran leader but at some point he needs to pass the baton. This family feud is damaging NCP's credibility. Maybe fresh leadership without family baggage is what Maharashtra needs now.
The emphasis on women's wing is encouraging! But will they give women real decision-making power or just token representation? Maharashtra needs more women in actual leadership roles, not just as party workers.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.