Mumbai, Maharashtra – Leaders of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), led by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar, have strongly refuted claims of internal discord and factional friction within the party. The statements come in response to recent media reports detailing alleged heated arguments and dissatisfaction among senior party members.
Sunetra Pawar, who heads the NCP following the demise of her husband Ajit Pawar, stated that reports of disputes during a recent core committee meeting were “completely baseless and devoid of facts.” Similarly, Maharashtra NCP President Sunil Tatkare dismissed reports of a verbal confrontation between himself and veteran leader Chhagan Bhujbal at the meeting, asserting that senior leaders are focused on strengthening the party.
Tatkare Expresses Disappointment Over Lack of Support
However, Tatkare reportedly voiced his disappointment during a meeting at Sunetra Pawar’s official residence, expressing that party colleagues did not support him and Praful Patel when they faced criticism from the opposition after Ajit Pawar’s death earlier this year. He suggested that while he and Patel bore the brunt of political attacks, others remained silent. This sentiment was reportedly shared during a meeting attended by party ministers and senior leaders, though Praful Patel was absent.
Senior leader Chhagan Bhujbal, in response to Tatkare’s concerns, advised putting past grievances aside and focusing on the party’s future. Sunetra Pawar also emphasized the need for unity and collective effort to strengthen the party organization. Her sons, Parth and Jay Pawar, who are part of the NCP’s national executive, were also present at the meeting.
Background of Party Splits and Leadership Changes
The NCP has experienced significant political shifts, including a major split in July 2023 when Ajit Pawar, along with a majority of MLAs and MPs, broke away from the faction led by his uncle, Sharad Pawar. The Election Commission of India later awarded the party name and symbol to the faction led by Ajit Pawar. Following Ajit Pawar’s tragic death, Sunetra Pawar assumed leadership of the party, which has since aligned with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government in Maharashtra.
Speculation about internal rifts was further fueled by the omission of senior leaders Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare’s names from a list recently submitted to the Election Commission. The party has since attributed this to a “clerical mistake,” assuring that a revised letter would be sent. The party’s national working president, Praful Patel, was also absent from a recent meeting convened to discuss candidate selection for upcoming polls, citing a prior engagement.
Despite these reported internal discussions and some leaders expressing discontent, the NCP leadership maintains that the party is functioning smoothly under Sunetra Pawar’s guidance. Discussions during recent meetings have also included preparations for the party’s foundation day and administrative matters, with a resolution to work collaboratively under Sunetra Pawar’s leadership.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
