The BJP leadership in Maharashtra has stayed silent amid recent events involving NCP factions led by Sharad Pawar and Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar. This indicates Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is proceeding carefully. Fadnavis and the state BJP face the task of securing a two-thirds majority in both houses for a constitutional amendment on delimitation and 33 percent women’s reservation in the Lok Sabha and assemblies. The Maharashtra BJP has been directed to contact parties across ideological lines. Yet Fadnavis recognizes the challenges of leading a three-party coalition and the influence of Sharad Pawar, who heads NCP (SP). For now the BJP watches events while stating it has no role in the NCP situation. Separate meetings by Fadnavis with both NCP factions on Tuesday night have fueled speculation. Both sides described the talks as routine constituency business, but insiders suspect further developments. Sunetra Pawar reportedly expressed displeasure that leaders Sunil Tatkare and Praful Patel did not inform her of the meeting. The NCP split in 2023 following a revolt by Ajit Pawar. After Ajit Pawar’s death in a January plane crash, reports suggested possible reunification talks that were later halted. Tatkare confirmed the factions had discussed merger before the death. The NCP under Sunetra Pawar now shows divisions between one group led by her and her sons and another led by Tatkare and Patel. Some MLAs from both sides believe a merger could strengthen the party, though none has raised the idea with leadership. The BJP is working to secure the required majority for the amendment bill. Recent shifts by six Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs to the Shinde-led Shiv Sena have increased NDA strength. NCP (SP) holds eight Lok Sabha seats, and the BJP could gain if those members support the legislation. BJP leaders have stated the bill will not be introduced until passage is assured. Spokesperson Vishwas Pathak said the party seeks support across the spectrum for the women’s reservation and delimitation measures. He added the BJP remains neutral on NCP matters and any merger or switch would occur through the existing NCP structure. A full NCP reunion appears unlikely given internal divisions. The BJP aims to balance its central goal without disrupting state alliances. Fadnavis recently indicated the NDA doors are closed to new entrants, signaling the current coalition will stay intact. Party insiders noted the BJP may accept issue-based support from NCP (SP) on legislation while monitoring effects on state politics.
