NCP Factions Set for Mid-February Reunion After Ajit Pawar’s Tragic Death, Sources

The two splintered factions of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) are poised to reunite formally in the second week of February, following the conclusion of local body elections in Maharashtra. Senior leaders from both sides confirmed that the merger process, which had gained momentum in recent months, is now advancing swiftly in the wake of Ajit Pawar’s sudden demise in a plane crash on Wednesday.

Sources revealed that Ajit Pawar had been actively working toward reconciliation with his uncle Sharad Pawar. Multiple high-level meetings took place in December and January, with plans for a joint press conference to announce the merger post-polls. NCP insiders recalled Ajit Pawar’s desire to present the reunion as a special gift to Sharad Pawar on his birthday (December 12), though it did not materialize then. Key discussions reportedly occurred as recently as January 16 and 17.

Ajit Pawar, who rebelled against Sharad Pawar in July 2023 to join the Mahayuti alliance and form the government, tragically died along with four others—including two pilots, his PSO, and a flight attendant—when their aircraft crashed near Baramati airport during a second landing attempt in poor visibility.

Also Read: Maharashtra Mourns Ajit Pawar: Funeral Today in Baramati With State Honours

With the merger now on track, leaders from both factions are scheduled to convene next week to finalize details and decide on the new party structure. Four names have emerged as frontrunners to lead the united NCP: veteran founder Sharad Pawar, Ajit Pawar’s wife Sunetra Pawar (a Rajya Sabha MP), Sharad Pawar’s daughter Supriya Sule, and senior leader Praful Patel.

There is a strong sentiment within party circles favoring Sunetra Pawar as the next president and legislative party leader, viewing her as a natural successor to carry forward Ajit Pawar’s legacy while maintaining unity. If technical or political hurdles prevent her appointment, Praful Patel—who had aligned with Ajit Pawar during the split—is considered the next likely choice.

The reunion would mark a significant shift in Maharashtra politics, bringing together leaders who had been divided since the 2023 rebellion, including figures like Chhagan Bhujbal and Dilip Walse-Patil who had joined Ajit Pawar’s camp. The development comes at a time of mourning and reflection for the NCP, with many crediting Ajit Pawar’s persistent efforts for laying the groundwork for this long-awaited reconciliation.

Also Read: PM Modi Condoles Ajit Pawar’s Death in Call to Sharad Pawar