The meetings came amid heightened political activity in the state, where recent developments have fuelled discussion over possible realignments ahead of key political events. However, NCP (SP) leaders moved quickly to dismiss the speculation, insisting that the meetings should not be interpreted as a sign of the party changing sides.

According to reports, Jayant Patil first met Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis before he and Jitendra Awhad later held discussions with Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde in Mumbai. The meetings immediately sparked political debate, with opposition leaders and political observers questioning whether the Sharad Pawar camp was opening channels of communication with the ruling alliance.

Responding to the speculation, Jayant Patil categorically denied that the meetings had anything to do with joining the NDA. He maintained that political leaders often meet across party lines and said there was no proposal or discussion regarding a shift in the party's political position.

Jitendra Awhad also dismissed suggestions of any political deal, reiterating that there was no change in the party's stand. The NCP (SP) leadership has sought to project the meetings as routine political interactions rather than negotiations over a future alliance.

The latest developments come just days after similar speculation gathered pace following meetings involving senior leaders from different political camps. Recent statements by party leaders on national issues had already prompted discussions over whether the Sharad Pawar-led outfit was adopting a more flexible approach towards the BJP-led government on selected matters.

Political observers believe the meetings have assumed significance because of Maharashtra's rapidly changing political landscape over the past few years. The state has witnessed multiple realignments, splits within major regional parties and shifting coalition equations, making every high-level political interaction a subject of intense scrutiny.

Despite the growing buzz, neither the ruling Mahayuti alliance nor the NCP (SP) has indicated that any formal political negotiations are underway. Leaders from both sides have refrained from suggesting that an alliance is being discussed publicly.

For now, the meetings have added another layer of intrigue to Maharashtra politics without providing definitive answers. While speculation over future political equations is likely to continue, the Sharad Pawar-led faction has maintained that it is not preparing to join the NDA, attempting to put an end to the rumours generated by the high-profile meetings.