Fadnavis Dismisses Posthumous NCP Merger Speculation, Cites Ajit Pawar's Confidentiality

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has categorically refuted emerging speculation regarding a potential merger of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) factions following the death of senior leader Ajit Pawar. In a statement characterized by surprise and authority, Fadnavis asserted that Ajit Pawar maintained a relationship of complete confidence with him, sharing all pertinent political deliberations. This rebuttal directly counters claims made by NCP patriarch Sharad Pawar, who suggested that the late leader had earmarked February 12 for a formal merger announcement. The political landscape remains in flux following the recent swearing-in of Ajit Pawar's wife, Sunetra Pawar, as Deputy Chief Minister—a move analysts are scrutinizing for its implications on succession and party cohesion. This development underscores the ongoing power realignments within Maharashtra's ruling coalition and highlights the sensitive, often speculative, nature of political maneuvering in the wake of a key figure's passing. The situation demands close monitoring for signs of formal consolidation or further factionalization within the NCP's ranks.