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

The NCP and NCP (SP) leaders are embroiled in a controversy over merger discussions and an article about the late Ajit Pawar. The tension arises from differing views on the merger's validity and the article's portrayal of Pawar, with calls for apologies and clarifications escalating the conflict.

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.

(With inputs from agencies.)