Up to 22 NCP MLAs may quit party ahead of merger talks: Shiv Sena leader

Merger negotiations between the two wings of the Nationalist Congress Party have sparked fresh concerns about defections, with opposition figures predicting significant erosion of support for one faction.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut alleged that between 20 and 22 MLAs from Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawa's NCP group could abandon the party in the coming period. The claims reflect ongoing tensions as the two rival NCP factions explore possibilities of reunification following their 2023 split.

When asked about the merger prospects, Pawa remained circumspect, indicating that details would emerge at the appropriate time. She did not directly address the defection concerns raised by Raut, maintaining a cautious public stance on the sensitive intra-party negotiations.

The potential loss of such a significant number of legislators would substantially weaken Pawa's position within her faction and could reshape Maharashtra's political landscape. The NCP's split has remained one of the most consequential developments in state politics, with both factions maintaining separate organizational structures and competing for influence in the coalition government.