Ajit Pawar had planned NCP merger by February 12, Sunil Tatkare says

Mumbai: Months after firmly denying the NCP (SP)'s claims about a possible reunion, the NCP has now changed its stance, with state president Sunil Tatkare claiming on Friday that Ajit Pawar had finalised a blueprint to merge the two groups by February 12 this year. The plan, however, came to an abrupt halt following the sudden death of the NCP president.

"The two factions were discussing a merger, and Ajit Pawar had told me exactly how the reunification would take place," Tatkare said. "Had he been alive, the merger would have taken place by February 12. Unfortunately, however, the process came to a halt following his untimely demise on January 28."

Tatkare's remarks have fuelled speculation that both camps are exploring a rapprochement, reportedly under pressure from the BJP. The speculation gained further momentum this week after NCP national working president Praful Patel met Sharad Pawar at Breach Candy Hospital, where the veteran leader is currently admitted. The two reportedly agreed to hold discussions once Pawar is discharged.


Tatkare's disclosure is being viewed with scepticism by both the NCP (SP) and the Congress. Insiders believe Tatkare's recollection of the merger plan is a calculated move to put pressure on current NCP national president Sunetra Pawar, along with her son Parth Pawar, with whom the party's senior leadership is locked in a bitter feud.

Both Sunetra and Parth are also believed to be strongly opposed to a merger, as they fear losing their influence over the united party.