BJP Pushes for NCP Merger Before Expanding NDA in Maharashtra

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is urging the two factions of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) to reunite before any formal inclusion of the party in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Sources say the BJP’s condition is that the Sharad Pawar‑led faction and the Sunetra Pawar‑Ajit Pawar faction merge first, after which the united NCP could receive cabinet berths at the centre and in Maharashtra. Sunetra Pawar and her son Parth have publicly opposed the merger, fearing a loss of influence. Working president Supriya Sule also denied receiving any proposal from the BJP or any NDA ally. The talks are linked to the NDA’s need for a two‑thirds majority to pass a constitutional amendment on women’s reservation and the upcoming delimitation bill. Meetings between NCP leaders, BJP officials and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis have been reported, but the parties have officially refuted any merger plans. No definitive decision has been announced.