Rift in NCP (SP): Half of MLAs push to join ruling NDA, say sources

The Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction) is facing internal turmoil as at least half of its 10 MLAs in Maharashtra have reportedly urged the leadership to exit the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) and ally with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA), according to senior party leaders.

The demand, driven largely by practical governance concerns rather than ideology, stems from legislators' desire for easier access to development funds and administrative approvals for their constituencies. A senior leader, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, 'The meetings and talks are happening almost daily. At least five MLAs have told the leadership that instead of merging with the Congress or staying within the opposition front, it is better to join hands with the NDA.'

Several legislators have expressed frustration over the party's perceived inconsistent political stance, with one MLA noting that the party sometimes abstains from voting or fails to oppose the government on key issues, making it preferable to formally join the ruling alliance.

Party chief Sharad Pawar has not publicly commented on the speculation and has not convened any formal meeting to discuss the party's future course. His daughter and Lok Sabha MP Supriya Sule has avoided either ruling out or endorsing a possible shift. Senior leader Jayant Patil has informed colleagues in informal meetings that half of the party's MLAs lean toward joining the NDA.

The debate intensified after six Lok Sabha MPs from Shiv Sena (UBT) recently joined the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, citing easier access to government approvals and funds. This has also triggered speculation that the NCP (SP) might consider merging with the Congress to prevent further erosion of its legislative strength. However, Congress leaders in Maharashtra have advised against a formal merger, preferring instead to induct individual leaders willing to switch.

The NCP (SP), with 10 MLAs in the Assembly and eight Lok Sabha MPs, is the smallest among Maharashtra's six major political parties. Yet its parliamentary strength has gained significance as the BJP-led NDA seeks to bolster numbers ahead of key legislation, including the proposed delimitation Bill. Party leaders believe the NDA would welcome support from smaller parties.

Recent political meetings have fueled the speculation. During a visit to the legislature, Sharad Pawar made an unscheduled stop at Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's office, with Shinde leaving a cabinet meeting to receive him. Days later, Jayant Patil met BJP Rajya Sabha MP Vinod Tawde, followed by a meeting between NCP (SP) MLC Eknath Khadse and Tawde. Khadse also met Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray.

The meeting between Pawar and Shinde reportedly displeased Shiv Sena (UBT), with a party functionary saying it 'diminishes the credibility of a major leader.' Sharad Pawar's next move remains unclear as the party navigates this internal divide.