The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has reportedly conveyed to its Mahayuti allies in Maharashtra that the Sharad Pawar-led NCP (SP) can only enter the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) if it merges with the other NCP faction to form a single, unified party
However, sources indicate that the BJP high command laid down this condition to prevent internal friction and insecurity among its existing allies, including the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena and the Ajit Pawar-led NCP faction. The BJP is reportedly looking to consolidate its numbers to pass contentious legislation like the Delimitation Bill and Women’s Reservation Bill while assuring current partners that their standing within the NDA won’t be compromised.
But, the likelihood of a family reconciliation and merger remains uncertain. Reports from outlets highlight that unifying under a single leadership (especially with Sharad Pawar at the helm) is complex, while NDTV notes that NCP (SP) working president Supriya Sule has dismissed the merger speculation, stating no such proposals have been received.
News Edit KV Raman
