Mumbai: In a poignant and politically-charged moment, veteran Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Sharad Pawar visited the residence of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar in Baramati on Wednesday to pay heartfelt tribute to his late nephew, former Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, who tragically died in a plane crash on January 28.
The 85-year-old Sharad Pawar offered floral tributes to Ajit Pawar at Sahyog Society, the family residence, in the presence of key family members, including Ajit’s sons Parth and Jay Pawar, MLA Rohit Pawar, and other relatives.
This marked Sharad Pawar’s first meeting with Sunetra Pawar since she was sworn in as Maharashtra’s first woman Deputy Chief Minister last Saturday, succeeding her husband.
The visit unfolded amid intense speculation about a possible reunification of the fractured NCP factions — one led by Sharad Pawar (NCP-SP) and the other previously headed by Ajit Pawar within the ruling Mahayuti alliance. Sources indicate that merger talks were at an advanced stage before Ajit’s demise, with February 12 tentatively set for an announcement. Sharad Pawar has previously stated that Ajit and senior leader Jayant Patil were spearheading the discussions, describing it as Ajit’s “last wish” or a planned “gift” to his uncle.
While the condolence visit appeared personal and emotional, it has fuelled fresh buzz in Maharashtra politics, especially with upcoming district council elections on the horizon. Sharad Pawar also held closed-door meetings lasting about one-and-a-half hours with Parth and Jay Pawar at Vidyaprasthan in Baramati, though no official details emerged. Rival faction leaders have questioned the merger claims, demanding clarity on terms.
The Pawar family tragedy continues to dominate headlines, blending grief with high-stakes political manoeuvring in the state.