Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) president for Maharashtra, Sunil Tatkare, firmly reaffirmed his party’s commitment to the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) during a press briefing on Sunday. He dismissed growing rumors regarding a potential merger with the Sharad Pawar-led faction of the NCP, emphasizing that the party would continue to follow the political ideology established by the late Ajit Pawar.
“Our stance is unequivocal,” Tatkare stated at the NCP’s state office, asserting that the party would advance under the principles instilled by Ajit Pawar. “We are with the NDA and will remain with the NDA. This decision was thoughtfully made by Ajitdada,” he asserted, underscoring that the alliance was a collective decision made under Ajit Pawar’s leadership. Tatkare highlighted that every significant political move has been taken with the late leader’s consensus.
In addition, he clarified that the NCP’s collaboration with the NDA does not compromise its ideological foundation. “We remain committed to secular values and social justice, inspired by icons like Shivaji Maharaj, Jyotiba Phule, Shahu Maharaj, and B.R. Ambedkar,” he noted, reaffirming that their alignment with the NDA reflects the mandate from the people of Maharashtra.
Responding to criticisms regarding Sunetra Pawar’s swift swearing-in as deputy chief minister following Ajit Pawar’s tragic passing, Tatkare explained that differing viewpoints are commonplace in a democracy. “There is nothing amiss in her undertaking the oath to stabilize Maharashtra and fulfill Ajit Pawar’s vision of a developed state,” he remarked, emphasizing that the decision was made with both the state’s welfare and the party’s strength in mind.
Tatkare expressed skepticism about the timing of merger speculation. He questioned why such discussions were circulating prior to even completing Ajit Pawar’s last rites. “I have not made any statement regarding merger talks, but a narrative is still being promoted that implies my opposition,” he commented.
Regarding the appointment of the party’s nominee for the Rajya Sabha, Tatkare confirmed that the decision will be determined internally by the NCP. He also acknowledged the BJP’s collaborative efforts within the alliance, stating, “The BJP has always cooperated with us and treated its allies respectfully.”
Tatkare’s comments came during a visit to the NCP state office, where rituals were performed to honor Ajit Pawar’s memory following his tragic death in a plane crash in Baramati on January 28.
As the NCP navigates its political landscape, Tatkare’s firm commitment to the NDA and the ideological pillars laid by Ajit Pawar appear to set a clear course for the party’s future amidst ongoing speculation and challenges within the political climate of Maharashtra.
Original Source: https://www.livemint.com/news/india/we-are-with-the-nda-ncps-sunil-tatkare-makes-big-remark-amid-merger-speculation-cites-decision-taken-by-ajit-pawar-11769950456990.html
Category :
Tags:
Publish Date: 2026-02-01 20:25:00
