Sharad Pawar also dismissed speculation about joining the NDA, stressing that such reports were driven by media conjecture and not by any political decision within the party.
BY PC Bureau
New Delhi, January 31, 2026:
NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar on Saturday made a significant disclosure regarding the future of the Nationalist Congress Party, revealing that talks to merge the two rival NCP factions were already at an advanced stage before the sudden death of his nephew and party leader Ajit Pawar.
Addressing a press conference, Sharad Pawar said the proposed merger had not only progressed substantially but was also in line with Ajit Pawar’s own wishes.
“Ajit Pawar, Shashikant Shinde and Jayant Patil had initiated discussions regarding the merger of the two factions. The talks had reached an advanced stage, and even the date had been fixed — February 12. Unfortunately, Ajit left us before that,” Pawar said.
The revelation comes amid intense political developments in Maharashtra following Ajit Pawar’s demise, including reports that his wife, Rajya Sabha MP Sunetra Pawar, may soon be sworn in as deputy chief minister.
However, Sharad Pawar maintained that he had no prior knowledge of these developments. “All decisions are being taken in Mumbai by senior leaders. I have not been consulted on these matters,” he said, indicating that party-level discussions were happening independently of him.
Talks on a possible merger between the two NCP factions took place in Baramati . Here is the video proof .
In a meeting between Ajit Pawar and Sharad Pawar. Senior leaders from Sharad Pawar’s side attended; Ajit Pawar came alone and presented the political & legal roadmap.… pic.twitter.com/3uhX0i2eIF
— Surbhi (@SurrbhiM) January 31, 2026
‘Family Stands United’
When asked whether the Pawar family had been consulted regarding Sunetra Pawar’s possible elevation, Sharad Pawar dismissed any suggestion of discord.
“The family stands united. If issues arise, we resolve them together. There are no problems within the family,” he said.
‘Decisions Being Taken in Mumbai’
Responding to queries about the swift political decisions following Ajit Pawar’s death, Sharad Pawar said senior party leaders in Mumbai were managing the process.
“These discussions are taking place in Mumbai, not here. Leaders such as Praful Patel, Sunil Tatkare and others are handling the situation. Whatever is happening appears to be their collective decision. I do not wish to comment further,” he added.
NDA Speculation Rejected
Sharad Pawar also firmly dismissed speculation about a possible shift in his political alignment or any move towards the BJP-led NDA.
“This is media speculation. There is nothing of that sort happening,” he said.
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Tribute to Ajit Pawar
During the press interaction, Sharad Pawar paid an emotional tribute to Ajit Pawar, describing him as a committed leader devoted to public service.
“He had a deep understanding of public issues and worked tirelessly to ensure justice for people. The people of Baramati stood firmly by him, and he always lived up to their trust,” Pawar said, adding that Ajit Pawar’s death had deeply shocked the family and party.
He said the current situation called for resilience and continuity. “We must move forward with strength and continue the values and approach with which he served. I believe the next generation of his family will carry forward his legacy,” he said.
Sunetra Pawar Reaches Mumbai
Meanwhile, Sunetra Pawar arrived in Mumbai early Saturday along with her son Parth ahead of a crucial meeting of the NCP legislature wing. The 62-year-old leader, who is not currently a member of the Maharashtra legislature, is expected to be elected as the party’s legislative leader and may take oath as Maharashtra’s first woman deputy chief minister.
Party sources indicated that senior leaders and family members were not informed in advance about her political decision. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that the government would support whatever decision the NCP and Ajit Pawar’s family take.
Sunetra Pawar entered active politics during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, contesting from Baramati, and was later elected to the Rajya Sabha.
