The Maharashtra political landscape is bracing for a seismic shift as rumors of a merger between the Sharad Pawar-led NCP (SP) and the Ajit Pawar-led NCP gain significant momentum. At the heart of the escalating speculation is a purported family consensus designed to settle the long-standing succession battle within the Pawar dynasty once and for all.

Highly placed sources suggest a strategic division of power is being finalized to preserve the family’s political legacy. Under this arrangement, Ajit Pawar is set to take full command of state-level politics and lead the unified party in Maharashtra. Meanwhile, Supriya Sule is expected to lead the party’s charge at the national level in Delhi, leveraging her experience as a seasoned Lok Sabha MP. Rumors further indicate that as part of the agreement, Sule could be positioned for a Union Cabinet berth, facilitated by the combined strength of the two factions in Parliament.

The catalyst for this reunification appears to be the impending conclusion of Sharad Pawar’s Rajya Sabha tenure in April 2026. At 85, the veteran “Chanakya” of Indian politics is reportedly planning to announce his formal retirement to focus on social work, leaving a clear path for the next generation. A source revealed on condition of anonymity that a series of meetings took place within the family where it was agreed that the baton should pass to Ajit Pawar, as he has demonstrated the ability to lead the family legacy through the state’s cut-throat political competition.

The primary driver for the immediate thaw in relations is the upcoming Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation elections. Both factions view these regions as their traditional bastions and are reportedly willing to unite to prevent the BJP from making further inroads. Proponents of the merger argue that the move allows the senior Pawar to step away with his reputation as a secular leader intact, as any future alliance with the BJP would be framed as a decision made by the next generation rather than his own.

However, the path to a merger is not without significant hurdles. The prospect of working under Ajit Pawar—who remains allied with the BJP—has caused a rift among Sharad Pawar’s loyalists. In a significant blow, NCP (SP) Pune City President Prashant Jagtap has already resigned to join the Congress, citing a refusal to compromise on political principles. Other senior leaders are reportedly looking for alternative routes to survive in state politics rather than return to a unified fold under the current conditions.

While an official announcement is awaited, the final administrative and ideological negotiations remain the last barrier. If the merger proceeds, it will fundamentally redefine the power dynamics of both the Maha Vikas Aghadi and the Mahayuti alliances ahead of the 2026 political cycle.

Also Read: IndiGo Disruptions Spark Political Firestorm, Rahul Gandhi Demands Accountability, Slams Govt Monopoly https://www.vibesofindia.com/indigo-disruptions-spark-political-firestorm-rahul-gandhi-demands-accountability-slams-govt-monopoly/