MUMBAI: Speculations are rife in Maharashtra’s political circles about the possible return of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar to his uncle Sharad Pawar’s NCP (Nationalist Congress Party). The discussions gained momentum following Sharad Pawar’s recent remarks in Pune, where he indicated that Ajit’s reintegration into the family was under consideration but emphasized that his return to the party would be decided by NCP leaders.
Sharad Pawar, speaking to the media, acknowledged Ajit’s potential return to the Pawar family fold, noting his influence as the family elder. However, he stressed that the decision on Ajit’s role within the party would be determined democratically by party members, not unilaterally by him.
“There is a place for Ajit within the Pawar family, but his position in the party will be decided collectively by our party workers,” Sharad Pawar affirmed. He highlighted the importance of consulting with party leaders who stood steadfastly by him during challenging times.
The discussions were further fueled by recent meetings involving key figures. NCP MP Supriya Sule met Ajit Pawar’s mother, while Sunetra Pawar, Ajit’s wife and a newly elected Rajya Sabha member, met Sharad Pawar in Pune. Sources close to the Pawar family expressed a belief that both uncle and nephew should reconcile for the greater benefit of the family and the state of Maharashtra.
Meanwhile, there is speculation that Ajit Pawar’s association with the BJP-led government might have negatively impacted the BJP’s electoral performance in Maharashtra, as indicated by sources within the BJP and RSS. There appears to be pressure from the RSS for the BJP to sever ties with Ajit Pawar to improve their electoral prospects.
“NCP (SP) spokesperson Clyde Crasto commented that after the setback in the Lok Sabha polls, it has become evident to the saffron outfit that an alliance with Ajit Pawar’s party could harm their chances,” the reports mentioned.