Sharad Pawar stated that his party would strengthen itself independently and not merge with any group
He cited the example of assistance announced for sweet-lime orchards after he found that the crop had not been covered by existing aid.
Pawar criticised the state government’s decision to declare drought in 265 talukas, saying several areas had been left out and banana growers had not been provided assistance.
Addressing the meeting, Pawar said, “Our state president, while speaking earlier, used a sentence saying that there are some discussions going on among us. Speaking about the speculation surrounding a merger of the two NCP factions, Pawar said, “If you want to come close to us, then those who want to come should come into our party. We do not want a conflict, but if our demands are not met, we will take to the streets in protest,” he said. Recalling his tenure as Union agriculture minister, Pawar said former prime minister Manmohan Singh had convened a meeting during a drought and delegated powers to MPs to take decisions on relief.
As the party president, I want to make it clear that the discussions are about strengthening the NCP under the leadership of Sharad Pawar. We will not join anyone else and our party will fight as an independent party. Pawar’s remarks came amid persistent speculation that the NCP (SP) could merge with the faction led by Sunetra Pawar and subsequently join the NDA. The speculation had intensified after Pawar met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, prompting discussions about a possible political realignment in Maharashtra. Pawar’s statement also appeared to be a message to the rival NCP faction that any possible reunion would have to involve it joining his party. “We will press the government on these demands within two to four days.
Pawar said the party had held a core committee meeting on Sunday and finalised its demands on the drought issue.