In Maharashtra, senior leaders from Sharad Pawar’s NCP (SP) and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis held a late‑night meeting, reigniting speculation about the party’s future. Both factions are weighing whether to align with the NDA or explore other coalition options.
Key Takeaways
- Sharad Pawar’s NCP (SP) faces a major strategic crossroads
- Late‑night talks were held between both NCP factions and CM Devendra Fadnavis
- Potential alignment with NDA or a merger with Congress under discussion
Mumbai – A fresh political ripple is being felt in Maharashtra as senior leaders from the two factions of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) led by Sharad Pawar met Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis late at night. The meeting signals that the Pawar camp is reassessing its strategic direction while the ruling coalition is probing possible alliances to strengthen its numbers ahead of critical legislation.
Background and Current Landscape
Since Ajit Pawar’s split from the undivided NCP and his entry into the BJP‑led Mahayuti in July 2023, Sharad Pawar’s NCP (SP) has been grappling with its smallest yet most pivotal role in Maharashtra politics. With only 10 MLAs in the state assembly and eight Lok Sabha MPs, the party’s parliamentary weight is modest but becomes decisive when the BJP‑led NDA seeks to shore up its numbers for upcoming bills such as the Delimitation Bill.
Details of the Late‑Night Meeting
According to sources, NCP (SP) state president Jayant Patil first met Sharad Pawar at his South Mumbai residence, Silver Oak, before heading to a separate evening discussion with CM Devendra Fadnavis. Ruling NCP leaders Sunil Tatkare and Praful Patel also met the chief minister. Neither side has publicly disclosed the agenda, but insiders confirm that both factions are weighing their political futures amid mounting pressure.
Potential Outcomes and Political Implications
Approximately half of the NCP (SP) MLAs have reportedly expressed a preference for joining the NDA, citing difficulties in securing development funds and administrative clearances while in opposition. Conversely, talks of a merger with the Congress have resurfaced, though state‑level Congress leaders have shown resistance. Fadnavis has previously warned that the Mahayuti will not open its doors to any new party, yet smaller parties often become king‑makers in tightly contested legislatures.
What Lies Ahead?
Jayant Patil’s recent briefing to party legislators highlighted a growing tilt toward the NDA among a significant bloc of legislators. Should Sharad Pawar endorse this shift, Maharashtra could see a realignment that bolsters the BJP‑led coalition’s numerical strength. Alternatively, a reintegration with the Congress could rejuvenate the opposition front, reshaping electoral calculations for the next state and national elections. In either scenario, the decision will impact development projects, resource allocations, and the broader political narrative in the state.