Parth Pawar meets Sharad Pawar for second consecutive day
NCP leaders deny merger speculation following back-to-back meetings between Parth Pawar and Sharad Pawar in Mumbai.
Rajya Sabha MP Parth Pawar met NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar at his Mumbai residence on Sunday for the second day in a row, according to reports from The Times of India and The Indian Express. The two-hour meeting follows a similar discussion held on Saturday.
The meetings have led to speculation regarding a possible reunion of the two NCP factions. However, NCP chief spokesperson Umesh Patil denied any merger talks, stating that such reports are hearsay being spread by those with vested interests. Patil added that it is insensitive to discuss political moves while Sharad Pawar is recovering.
NCP (SP) leaders Amol Kolhe and Jitendra Awhad also met Sharad Pawar on Saturday. They told reporters the meeting was only to inquire about his health after he was discharged from the hospital. NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar also opposed the merger speculation, saying the matter had not been discussed within his party.
NCP national working president Praful Patel said he would meet Sharad Pawar in Mumbai after Nov 10. Speaking in Gondia on Sunday, Patel denied discussing politics during a previous hospital visit, though he noted they briefly discussed political developments.
The speculation follows reports that seven NCP leaders met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi. A senior NCP leader, speaking to The Times of India on condition of anonymity, alleged that some functionaries are unhappy with Parth Pawar for taking key decisions without consultation.