Turmoil in NCP: Leaders Clash Over Merger Talks and Ajit Pawar Tribute

In a heated exchange, leaders from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and its splinter group, NCP (SP), have become embroiled in a dispute over the potential merger of their factions. The feud erupted following a contentious article about late leader Ajit Pawar.

While NCP's Anand Paranjpe demands an apology for maligning Pawar posthumously, NCP (SP) chief Shashikant Shinde insists the merger issue is closed. Shinde denies any aggressive push for reunification, claiming the party's focus is now on rebuilding.

The controversy highlights the growing tensions between the factions, with criticism of the timing and sensitivity of the merger talks post-Pawar's demise. Senior leaders like Chhagan Bhujbal and party spokespersons oppose constant merger speculation, calling for a more measured approach.