Mumbai

Senior leader of the Sharad Pawar faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), Jayant Patil, on Saturday revealed details of the party’s efforts to merge factions, citing the late Ajit Pawar’s strong insistence on unifying the party. Patil, who led the merger discussions, said he had obtained the consent of all party members before initiating the talks.

Patil stated that Ajit Pawar had assured him of the support of nearly all his MLAs, saying, “Out of my 40 MLAs, 39—or even all 40—will follow my direction. A few may express opinions, but no one will take a stand different from mine.”

In a video statement, Patil said, “Ajit Dada was very insistent that we should come together. From our side, there was no opposition from anyone. If both sides are granted the wisdom to fulfil Ajit Dada’s final wish, it should be carried out. Over the past eight to nine months, I alone conducted these discussions. I ensured consent from everyone on our side. Ajit Dada often reassured me that all our MLAs would act according to his instructions. There is overwhelming support for unity, and everyone wants it done as soon as possible.”

Patil also voiced support for Sunetra Pawar, the widow of Ajit Pawar, to take over party leadership. “Our efforts are focused on ensuring that Sunetra Pawar manages the leadership of the party both in the state and nationally,” he said.

On the topic of potential mergers with other parties, Patil said that following Ajit Pawar’s death, the option is currently on hold. Party leaders will deliberate internally and consult with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) before making any decisions.

The NCP is scheduled to hold a meeting later on Saturday, after which the party will submit a name for the Deputy Chief Minister post.

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Sharad Pawar, party chief, stated that he has no knowledge of Sunetra Pawar being proposed for the position. “I have no information about it. Her party must have decided. What I read in the newspaper today mentions names like Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare who have taken initiatives,” he said.