Mumbai, Feb 13 (NationPress) The President of Maharashtra NCP(SP), Shashikant Shinde, has composed a reflective piece for the party's magazine, illuminating the complex factors surrounding the division and the rumored merger plans between the two factions of the NCP.

Shinde alleged that the late Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar was compelled to leave the original NCP due to threats and schemes engineered by "invisible forces."

He added that a conclusive decision to merge the parties was made in the presence of Maratha heavyweight Sharad Pawar and was scheduled to be disclosed on February 12.

In a significant revelation, Shinde asserted that Sharad Pawar and other senior figures had consented to transfer the total leadership of the combined party to Ajit Pawar following the merger.

Shinde stated, “Accomplishing this merger and revitalizing the party with vigor would be the only genuine homage to Ajit Dada.”

He clarified, “It was our collective choice to delegate all party duties to Ajit Dada once the merger was finalized. However, destiny intervened. We were all psychologically ready to embrace Ajit Dada’s guidance.”

Shinde urged the party's supporters, declaring that a merger is the only authentic tribute to the late leader. He emphasized, “Ajit Pawar’s vision remains unrealized, and it is now the party's duty to fulfill it. Unity: Reuniting and fortifying the NCP is our paramount objective. Leaders and members must set aside their disagreements and broaden their perspectives to achieve this unity.”

After the publication of the article, senior NCP(SP) leader and former Home Minister Anil Deshmukh remarked, “I am unaware of what our State President has stated. Since he authored the article, he likely possesses more details than I do. I personally have no knowledge of this matter.”

While Sharad Pawar has refrained from publicly addressing the situation, Shinde’s article has unveiled these behind-the-scenes dynamics. However, Shinde’s disclosures have ignited a new debate, and the NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) has responded with skepticism.

Party spokesperson Suraj Chavan questioned the timing of these assertions, alleging that discussing a merger while the leader’s remains were still at Vidya Pratishthan indicates a "thirst for power" rather than genuine respect. He noted that Sunetra Pawar now holds the ultimate authority of their party, and any discussions must occur through her.

Additionally, party legislator Amol Mitkari stated that no merger discussions have transpired during their internal meetings, attributing the rumors to rival leaders.

As the Pawar family continues to exhibit a unique balance of political rivalry and familial ties—recently observed at family weddings—the political landscape remains uncertain.

All eyes are now focused on Sunetra Pawar. Whether she will strive to realize the "unfulfilled dream" of a unified NCP or uphold a distinct identity is a question that will shape the forthcoming chapter of Maharashtra politics.