Is NCP Really Operating on Democratic Principles, As Praful Patel Claims?
Synopsis
In a recent statement, NCP Working President Praful Patel dismissed rumors of his appointment as National President as false. This clarification comes amid rising speculation about the party's leadership following the passing of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. Explore the implications of these developments within the NCP and Maharashtra politics.
Key Takeaways
Praful Patel denies claims of his appointment as NCP National President.
The NCP emphasizes its commitment to democratic principles .
Speculation rises over party leadership following Ajit Pawar's passing.
Legislators are campaigning for Sunetra Pawar to take on the national presidency.
Political dynamics are shifting in Maharashtra, as noted by Raj Thackeray .
Mumbai, Feb 1 (NationPress) The NCP Working President Praful Patel stated on Sunday that recent news articles suggesting his appointment as the National President are entirely “false” and “factually incorrect”.
“The Nationalist Congress Party operates on democratic principles, and any decision regarding such appointments would require thorough consultation with senior leaders, MLAs, and office-bearers, while respecting the collective desires and sentiments of all party members. As a national party, the NCP adheres to well-established protocols in such matters,” Patel asserted in his post on X.
The impetus for Patel's clarification came after a news report cited Union Minister Piyush Goyal’s remarks about Patel’s alleged election as the NCP national president.
Goyal’s initial statement sparked controversy, hinting at disarray within the Mahayuti alliance or undisclosed internal movements.
However, after Patel's clarification, Goyal posted on X, admitting, “A senior journalist had provided me with incorrect information regarding Shri Praful Patel being elected as the president of the Nationalist Congress Party. Without verifying the facts, I made certain statements in the media, but it later became clear that the information was incorrect, and the NCP continues to operate under the leadership of Deputy Chief Minister Smt Sunetra Ajitdada Pawar. I apologize for the dissemination of misleading information.”
Following the unexpected demise of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, speculation has surged concerning the NCP’s leadership structure.
A faction of NCP legislators has initiated a signature campaign post the legislature party meeting on Saturday, advocating for Sunetra Pawar, who was sworn in as Maharashtra's first female Deputy Chief Minister, to be appointed the national president.
Previously, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray remarked that the political landscape in Maharashtra has experienced a significant transformation recently.
“Honestly, commenting on this situation feels unnecessary. Nevertheless, I must address the developments occurring daily. A party like the Nationalist Congress Party, deeply rooted in Marathi culture, should have a proper Marathi leader, perhaps a Patil, but certainly not a Patel.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the complexities within political parties like the NCP, especially during turbulent times. Praful Patel's recent clarifications highlight the significance of maintaining democratic principles in party leadership. The ongoing speculation reflects broader trends in Maharashtra politics that require careful observation.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Praful Patel clarify about his appointment?
Praful Patel clarified that reports claiming he was appointed as the National President of the NCP are entirely false and factually incorrect.
What triggered Patel's clarification?
His clarification was prompted by a news report citing Union Minister Piyush Goyal's statements about Patel's alleged appointment.
What is the current political situation within the NCP?
Following the death of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, there has been intense speculation regarding the NCP's leadership and a push for Sunetra Pawar to be appointed as the national president.
