Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Apr 29: In a move that signals a potential thawing of political tensions, the Ajit Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has announced its intention to formally invite veteran statesman Sharad Pawar to its Maharashtra Day celebrations on May 1. This gesture comes amidst ongoing speculation about a possible reconciliation between the two factions.
"Sharad Pawar's contributions to Maharashtra and the nation are undeniable. He is a national leader and a four-time Chief Minister of Maharashtra. How can we overlook his legacy? We will extend an invitation to him," affirmed Sunil Tatkare, NCP state chief and Lok Sabha MP.
Two years ago, the NCP experienced a significant schism, with Ajit Pawar claiming the party name and election symbol, while Sharad Pawar established the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar) (NCP-SP).
Tatkare further disclosed that the NCP plans to honor all former Chief Ministers of Maharashtra on May 3. "We have reached out to Prithviraj Chavan of the Congress. We are also aware that Uddhav Thackeray is currently abroad, but we will extend an invitation to him as well. Our Executive President, Praful Patel, will personally meet with Sharad Pawar to deliver the invitation," Tatkare stated.
The NCP is organizing the "Gauravshali Maharashtra" festival from May 1 to 4 to commemorate the 65th anniversary of Maharashtra's formation. Among the five pavilions planned for the event, one will be dedicated to recognizing the contributions of all past Chief Ministers.
Tatkare informed reporters that the current celebrations are intended to replicate the five-day festivities that followed the formation of Maharashtra on May 1, 1960. "We will recreate that spirit by holding celebrations from May 1 to 4," he explained.
However, sources within the NCP-SP have indicated that Sharad Pawar has not yet received any formal invitation from the NCP. "This is not a government program but a party function. Given the strained relationship between the Pawars, it is unlikely he will share the stage with the NCP," a senior NCP-SP leader commented.
Over the past two years, Ajit and Sharad Pawar have only been seen together at official meetings and family gatherings, maintaining a strict separation of their political stances and refraining from public comments on the matter, especially following the assembly elections.