Renowned political figure Sharad Pawar hinted at the possibility of a reconfiguration of political forces, particularly among regional parties, in the aftermath of the ongoing elections, which mark a crucial period in the country’s political landscape. This suggestion raises questions about the emergence of a new political formation that could fluctuate around the existing axis dominated by the BJP and the Congress. Additionally, Pawar’s remarks shed light on the position of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), the party he founded.
Pawar, a seasoned and influential figure in national politics, offered his insight, predicting that several regional parties may align themselves more closely with the Congress, with some even considering merging with it.
One interpretation of Pawar’s statements is that he, as the founder of the NCP in 1999, faced a challenging decision regarding the future of his party, particularly in light of internal divisions and his advancing age. This decision-making process was complicated by the departure of his nephew, Ajit Pawar, who took a faction of the party with him and aligned with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Shiv Sena in Maharashtra.
Pawar’s attempts to pass the leadership of the NCP to his daughter, Supriya Sule, may have contributed to the strain in his relationship with his nephew. The ongoing Lok Sabha elections will provide insight into the NCP’s strength and resilience against Ajit Pawar’s faction.
Moreover, the outcomes of these elections will also set the stage for the upcoming electoral battle for the 288-member Maharashtra State Assembly, scheduled for later this year. Currently, the political landscape in Maharashtra is characterized by the Mahayuti coalition led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s BJP, along with Shiv Sena and NCP (Ajit Pawar), facing off against the Maharashtra Vikas Agadi, comprising Shiv Sena (under Uddhav Thakre’s leadership), the Congress, and NCP (under Sharad Pawar’s leadership).
