The developments come against the backdrop of intense discussions within the party following the recent political upheaval and the reported death of Ajit Pawar, a key figure whose leadership had shaped negotiations between the two rival NCP groups. Despite mounting speculation, there has been no official confirmation of any breakthrough talks.

Sharad Pawar reached Mumbai on Sunday morning, four days after the reported demise of his nephew and former Maharashtra deputy chief minister. Earlier, he had told the media that there was no discussion with him regarding Sunetra Pawar’s oath-taking, indicating that decisions were taken independently by the other faction.

Sunetra Pawar, wife of Ajit Pawar, was sworn in as Deputy Chief Minister in Mumbai on Saturday. She later returned to Baramati, her political base, but there was no clarity on whether she met or spoke with Sharad Pawar during this period. Party insiders said the absence of any public interaction has only added to the uncertainty surrounding a possible reunion of the factions.

Meanwhile, Sharad Pawar’s daughter and Baramati Lok Sabha MP Supriya Sule departed for New Delhi to attend the ongoing Budget Session of Parliament. Her move is being viewed as part of routine parliamentary responsibilities, though it coincides with critical internal deliberations within the party.

On Saturday, Ajit Pawar’s son Parth Pawar met Sharad Pawar at the latter’s Govindbagh residence in Baramati. Senior leaders including Supriya Sule, MLA Rohit Pawar and Yugendra Pawar were present at the meeting. However, no official statement was issued on the outcome of the interaction.

Senior NCP leaders Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare have maintained silence on the merger issue, while others such as Narhari Zirwal have publicly appealed for unity. Sharad Pawar had earlier stated that Ajit Pawar had proposed February 12 as the date for announcing a merger of the two factions, but acknowledged that recent developments could complicate the process.

With no formal talks confirmed and key leaders offering guarded responses, the future of a unified NCP remains uncertain, leaving party workers and political observers closely watching the next moves.