NCP MP Praful Patel Denies Rumors of Party Leadership Change
In a recent statement, NCP MP Praful Patel has firmly rejected rumors regarding his potential appointment as the national president of the Nationalist Congress Party. He clarified that such claims are unfounded and emphasized the party's democratic processes in decision-making. This announcement comes in light of significant political shifts following the death of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, with Sunetra Pawar stepping into the role, marking a historic moment in Maharashtra's political landscape. Patel's comments also addressed ongoing speculation about the merger of NCP factions, which Sharad Pawar has also denied. Read on for more insights into the current political dynamics within the NCP.
| Feb 1, 2026, 13:43 IST
Clarification on Leadership Speculations
NCP Member of Parliament Praful Patel dismissed recent reports claiming he would be appointed as the national president of the party, labeling them as unfounded and false. In a post on X, Patel refuted these speculations, stating that no such decision has been made. He emphasized, 'I have noticed some news circulating in the media regarding my appointment as the national president of the Nationalist Congress Party. I want to make it absolutely clear that these reports are completely baseless and untrue.'
Democratic Process Within NCP
Patel further explained that the NCP operates as a democratic organization, and any significant decisions are made only after proper consultation with senior leadership, legislators, and party officials. He reiterated, 'As a national party, we adhere to established procedures in these matters, ensuring that decisions are made after discussions with our dedicated party officials and respecting the sentiments and collective will of all party members.'
Context of Recent Political Changes
This clarification comes in the wake of speculation regarding the merger of NCP factions following the death of Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. On Saturday, Sunetra Pawar, Ajit Pawar's widow and NCP Rajya Sabha MP, took the oath as Deputy Chief Minister, making her the first woman to hold this position in Maharashtra's political history. The NCP MP has been elected as the leader of the party's legislative group and is set to assume the deputy chief minister role, which became vacant after Ajit Pawar's tragic death in a plane crash in Baramati.
Rejection of Merger Speculations
Meanwhile, NCP chief Sharad Pawar also denied rumors about the merger of the two factions of the NCP following Ajit Pawar's passing. When asked if they would consider joining the NDA in the event of a merger, Sharad Pawar told reporters, 'This is all coming from your side (the media); there is nothing of that sort happening here.'