Mumbai, Feb 1 (NationPress) The President of the Maharashtra Nationalist Congress Party and MP, Sunil Tatkare, dismissed rumors regarding a potential merger between rival factions of the NCP, clearly stating that the party will continue its alliance with the NDA.

“We are committed to the NDA and have made a permanent decision to stay aligned with it. I have always acted in accordance with the wishes of the late Ajit Pawar. Regardless of external opinions, our mission is to uphold the legacy of the party and the principles established by Dada, and we are steadfast in this commitment,” Tatkare asserted.

His comments came amidst speculation about a merger, following remarks from NCP SP chief Sharad Pawar, who indicated that discussions had taken place and that Ajit Pawar was expected to announce the merger on February 12.

Tatkare emphasized that, according to the Constitution drafted by Bharat Ratna Babasaheb Ambedkar, everyone is entitled to share their opinions.

“After Sunetra Pawar took her oath as Deputy Chief Minister yesterday, the right to express opinions is open to all. However, her oath signifies a commitment to stabilizing Maharashtra, reinforcing the NCP family, and realizing Ajit Pawar’s vision for a developed Maharashtra. There is nothing inappropriate about that,” he remarked.

Tatkare stated that the decision regarding the party’s candidate for the Rajya Sabha will be made by the NCP, highlighting that the BJP has always shown cooperation with the party.

“Throughout the cabinet formation and other significant decisions, the BJP has not directed us. Instead, we are witnessing how a coalition partner ought to be treated with dignity and respect under the leadership of the BJP’s senior officials in the NDA,” he commented.

Questioning the timing of the merger speculation, Tatkare inquired why discussions arose before the completion of funeral rites.

Tatkare affirmed that those supporting this perspective would proceed with their decisions, asserting that the choice to join the NDA was made by Ajit Pawar after thorough contemplation, and the party firmly stands by it.

He denied any discussion of a merger, claiming that accusations have been leveled against them. He emphasized his 30-year association with Ajit Pawar and his commitment to fulfilling every responsibility assigned by the party.

Tatkare reiterated that the decision to remain with the NDA is unyielding, and he is unaware of who instigated the merger discussions. He suggested that those responsible should be interrogated.

Reaffirming his position, Tatkare stated, “Let those who wish to accuse us do so. We are adhering to a stance that aligns with Ajit Pawar’s family and the decisions that led to the establishment of the party as a family unit. In a democratic framework, the authority to elect the legislative leader belongs to the Nationalist Congress Party.”

He noted that the Legislative Party was developed through years of dedication by Dada. Tatkare confirmed that under Dada’s leadership, a collective decision was made to join the NDA while remaining steadfast to the party’s foundational secular values and the principles of Shivaji, Shahu, Phule, and Ambedkar, advocating for social equity.

“Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the NCP has resolved to be part of the NDA. The residents of Maharashtra have supported this decision, hence our commitment to the NDA is firm,” he concluded.

In related news, Tatkare announced that the ashes of Maharashtra leader and the party’s National Leader, Ajit Dada Pawar, were brought to the party’s Main Office for ritual worship. The ashes will be transported to all districts of Maharashtra starting Monday.

He added that party Ministers, MLAs, and District Presidents will conduct public darshan, after which the ashes will be immersed in rivers across the respective districts.

Previously, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis remarked, “Ajit Pawar and I were in continuous dialogue. Had there been any discussions regarding the unification of both NCP factions, Ajit Pawar would certainly have informed us.”

He also clarified that Ajit Pawar’s NCP operates as an independent entity and that he makes autonomous decisions for the party.