NCP's Permanent Alliance with BJP-Led NDA: Sunil Tatkare's Firm Stance
In a significant political development, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) state president and Lok Sabha MP Sunil Tatkare has unequivocally stated that his party's decision to remain with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is permanent. The declaration comes amid ongoing uncertainty regarding the potential merger between the two factions of the NCP, with Tatkare emphasizing that it is now up to others to determine their political position.
Clear Message to Sharad Pawar-Led NCP-SP
Tatkare's statement is widely interpreted as a direct message to the Sharad Pawar-led NCP-SP faction, urging them to decide whether they wish to join the NDA or continue their association with the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), which comprises the Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT). Speaking to the media at the party's state office during the 'Asthi Kalash Pujan' ceremony honoring former Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, Tatkare refrained from naming any specific party but left little ambiguity about his intentions.
"We are with the NDA, and the decision to stay with them is permanent. It is for others to decide whether they want to take a stand in line with our position," Tatkare asserted, highlighting the NCP's unwavering commitment to the alliance.
Questioning Premature Merger Discussions
Tatkare expressed bewilderment over the initiation of merger talks between the NCP and NCP-SP even before the completion of Ajit Pawar's final rites. He underscored the collective decision made under Ajit Pawar's leadership to join the NDA, a move that he claimed was firmly rooted in the party's secular principles and the values of Shahu-Phule-Ambedkar.
"The NCP legislative party was built through Dada's hard work. A collective decision was made under his leadership to join the NDA while remaining firm on our secular roots and the values of Shahu-Phule-Ambedkar. The 12 crore people of Maharashtra have endorsed this. We stand by the thoughtful decision Dada made to join the NDA," Tatkare elaborated, paying tribute to Ajit Pawar's legacy.
Praising BJP's Cooperative Leadership
In his remarks, Tatkare commended the BJP's leadership within the NDA, noting their cooperative and respectful approach. He emphasized that the BJP does not interfere in the NCP's cabinet or internal decisions, instead treating them with cordiality and respect.
"The BJP has always cooperated. They do not dictate our cabinet or internal decisions; instead, they treat us with cordiality and respect. I am a witness to this positive experience under the top leadership of the BJP," he stated, reinforcing the strength of the alliance.
Clarifying Merger Stance and Personal Loyalty
Tatkare further clarified that he has never spoken of a merger between the two NCP factions. Reflecting on his three-decade association with Ajit Pawar, he affirmed his loyalty and alignment with Pawar's views throughout his political career.
"I have walked as a trusted associate of Dada for 30 years. Whether as president under Pawar Saheb (Sharad Pawar) for four years or in other roles after that, I have fulfilled my duties with loyalty. As his worker and colleague, I have consistently aligned with his views," Tatkare remarked, underscoring his steadfast commitment.
Emotional Ceremony and Ash Distribution
Earlier, Tatkare informed that the ashes of Ajit Pawar would be taken to all districts across Maharashtra as part of the ceremonial rites. Ajit Pawar's son, Parth, was present for the ceremony, where he was overcome with emotion upon entering his father's cabin. Parth hugged the chair where Ajit Pawar used to sit and wept uncontrollably, highlighting the profound personal loss felt by the family.
Defending Sunetra Pawar's Swearing-In
Addressing criticism over Sunetra Pawar's swearing-in as Deputy Chief Minister just four days after Ajit Pawar's death, Tatkare defended the decision, citing constitutional rights and the need for stability.
"Under the Constitution given by Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar, everyone has freedom of expression and the right to their opinion. However, she took the oath to stabilise Maharashtra and the NCP family, and to realise Ajit Dada's dream of a developed Maharashtra. There is nothing improper about it," he asserted, justifying the swift political transition.
Context of Merger Announcements
Tatkare's comments come at a time when leaders of the NCP-SP have repeatedly stated that the decision to merge the two parties was finalized by Ajit Pawar. Sharad Pawar had earlier indicated that the merger announcement was scheduled for February 12, adding to the political intrigue surrounding the factional dynamics within the NCP.
The ongoing developments underscore the complex political landscape in Maharashtra, with Tatkare's firm stance signaling a clear path forward for the NCP within the NDA, while leaving the ball in the court of the Sharad Pawar-led faction to determine its future course of action.
