Interacting with the media, Pawar attributed the decision to internal deliberations within the rival NCP group. ‘This must be the party’s call, similar to choices made by Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare. I’m not privy to their internal decisions,’ he said, highlighting the growing chasm between the factions.

Sharad Pawar made it clear he was washing his hands off the appointment. ‘They have the authority to decide. Our routes in politics are separate now, but family unites in sorrow,’ he noted, balancing familial solidarity with political separation.

Addressing concerns over family discord, Pawar dismissed rumors outright. ‘Families stick together during hardships. The Pawars are solid as ever,’ he declared confidently.

Queried about attendance at the swearing-in, Pawar repeated his lack of information. ‘We heard about it in the news. No formal invite or details reached us.’

Shifting to broader party reconciliation, Pawar shared insights into pre-crash negotiations. Merger talks between Ajit Pawar and Jayant Patil had progressed positively, almost sealing the deal. ‘Ajit wanted unity, as did we. They were set to announce it as Deputy CM on February 12,’ he explained, noting his peripheral role.

Ajit’s sudden death in the plane accident has derailed these efforts. Pawar left the future open-ended, saying it hinges on both camps’ leadership. As Maharashtra gears up for more power plays, Sharad Pawar’s measured words signal cautious optimism amid uncertainty.

The delegation boasted heavyweights like Praful Patel, the party’s working president, alongside Sunil Tatkare, Chhagan Bhujbal, Hasan Mushrif, and Dhananjay Munde. Their dialogue highlighted pressing needs for cabinet reshuffles and leadership transitions to steady the ship of state.

Emerging from the meeting, Patel addressed the media, outlining plans for a legislative party conclave to pick the new chief. He stressed informing Fadnavis about the imperative for rapid resolutions on portfolios and hierarchy. ‘Consultations with our MLAs will shape our path forward,’ Patel noted, committing to honor the emotions of party members at all levels.

Rumors linking Sunetra Pawar to the deputy CM slot were quashed. ‘No such proposal was tabled today; it’s purely internal. With the family in mourning and rituals ongoing, we’ll discuss with her soon,’ Patel clarified. He reiterated that the position would be filled expeditiously, guided by legislators’ consensus.

This development follows NCP’s Narhari Zirwal advocating for Sunetra at Pawar’s Baramati funeral rites, citing legacy preservation. As the NCP grapples with loss, its strategic choices could redefine Maharashtra’s power dynamics, testing the Mahayuti alliance’s resilience in turbulent times.