ThePrint ThePrintAm: Ajit Pawar dies in plane crash: What next for NCP?
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Jan 29, 2026 A sudden leadership vacuum in Maharashtra politics after Ajit Pawar's death and the uncertain future of his splinter faction. Possible successors and family members are examined. Strategic choices include reunification, new alliances, or alignment with major parties. Local strongholds and regional vulnerabilities shape the high-stakes decisions ahead.
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Leadership Vacuum In Ajit Pawar Faction
- Ajit Pawar's faction was built around his personal authority, creating a leadership vacuum after his death.
- The faction now faces likely merger talks with Sharad Pawar's NCP or internal succession struggles.
Potential Leadership Friction Among Seniors
- Second-rung leaders like Sunil Tatkare, Praful Patel and Chhagan Bhujbal could contest for leadership, risking internal friction.
- Analysts expect these seniors to choose paths offering the best political gains rather than strictly staying loyal.
Electoral Cooperation Eases Reunification
- Both NCP factions had already cooperated electorally, using the Ajit Pawar faction's 'clock' symbol for upcoming local polls.
- That electoral cooperation makes a reunification or negotiated merger more plausible now.