BJP Slams Sharad Pawar's 'Desperation' for NCP Merger Amid Mourning Period
The Maharashtra unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has launched a sharp critique against the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar), or NCP (SP), questioning what it describes as the party's "desperation" for a merger with the NCP. This comes after NCP (SP) leaders recently raised the pitch for unification, even as the political landscape remains tense following the tragic death of Ajit Pawar in a plane crash on January 28.
Timing of Merger Talks Under Scrutiny
Keshav Upadhye, the chief spokesperson of the Maharashtra BJP, expressed strong disapproval of the timing of these merger discussions. In a statement to The Indian Express on Monday, Upadhye highlighted that the NCP (SP) began pushing for a merger "even before the mourning period ended and before Ajit Pawar's ashes were immersed." He questioned the urgency, asking, "Why is Sharad Pawar's party so desperate to merge with NCP? Why are they in such a hurry?"
Upadhye further pointed out that if the NCP (SP) wishes to join hands with the NCP, it would necessitate aligning with the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the Mahayuti coalition in Maharashtra. This, he argued, raises critical questions about the fate of the party's secular agenda, which has long been a cornerstone of its political identity.
Sharad Pawar's Stance and Internal Dynamics
Interestingly, NCP founder Sharad Pawar has attempted to distance himself from these recent developments. Last Saturday, he clarified that several decisions reported in the media were internal matters of the Ajit Pawar-led faction and had not been discussed with his group. He acknowledged that discussions regarding a possible merger had been underway but noted they now appear uncertain.
However, Upadhye challenged this narrative, posting on social media to question Sharad Pawar's credibility. He likened the situation to "Sharad Pawar's HMV—His Master's Voice", suggesting that his statements are mindlessly echoed without scrutiny. Upadhye argued that instead of focusing on Sharad Pawar's own actions, criticism has been conveniently directed at Sunetra Pawar—Ajit Pawar's wife, who was recently sworn in as Maharashtra's first woman Deputy Chief Minister—and the BJP.
Political Implications and Ideological Concerns
The BJP spokesperson raised several pointed questions about the political ramifications of a potential merger. He wondered why no one, including allies like Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut, has questioned what would happen to the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) at the Centre and the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) in Maharashtra if such a merger were to occur.
Upadhye also speculated whether the talk of a merger is a sign of political helplessness for the Pawar faction. He noted that it was clear Ajit Pawar would remain with the NDA and Mahayuti, making the merger push seem opportunistic. "If a merger were on the horizon, then what would happen to Sharad Pawar's so-called 'secular' stance?" he asked, implying a potential compromise of ideological principles.
Call for Restraint and Moral Leadership
In his critique, Upadhye emphasized that Sharad Pawar, as the elder statesman of the family, should have taken a clearer stand. He suggested that Pawar should have publicly supported Sunetra Pawar during this difficult time and deferred all political discussions until after the mourning period. "What exactly is the reason that Sharad Pawar could not take this stance—one that would have displayed restraint, maturity, and a high moral ground?" Upadhye questioned.
This situation unfolds against the backdrop of a statement from NCP Maharashtra president Sunil Tatkare, who affirmed on Sunday that his party's decision to remain with the BJP-led NDA is "permanent." This has been interpreted as a clear message to the NCP (SP) to decide whether it wants to join the NDA or continue with the opposition MVA, which includes the Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT).
As the political drama continues, the BJP's accusations highlight the complex interplay of personal loss, ideological commitments, and strategic maneuvering in Maharashtra's volatile political arena. The coming days are likely to see further developments as both factions navigate these turbulent waters.
