The Pawar puzzle: Can he make a comeback?
With contentious legislation on parliamentary delimitation set to dominate the session and Maharashtra’s political equations in flux, Pawar’s next move could determine not only the future of the NCP but also the balance of power in one of India’s most politically significant states
As the Monsoon Session of Parliament begins, Sharad Pawar, the leader of the NCP, faces internal conflicts within his party. There could be political changes first in Maharashtra, and then the merged NCP could ally with the BJP.
Pawar is known as a political survivor because he has often saved his party from disappearing. He is skilled at forming unexpected alliances, such as the 2019 Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance with Shiv Sena and Congress. He also has a strong grassroots network in Maharashtra. Even after the tragic loss of his nephew, Ajit Pawar, in a plane crash, and ongoing power struggles within his faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), he still has significant influence in both national and regional politics.
In July 2023, the political climate in Maharashtra worsened when Ajit Pawar left the NCP to join the BJP-Shiv Sena government. Soon after, the Election Commission recognised Ajit Pawar’s group as the official NCP. In response, Sharad Pawar started a new party called the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar). Now, Maharashtra has two rival parties, both claiming the same political legacy. This session arrives at a critical point, where upcoming legislation on parliamentary representation could reshape governance, inspiring hope for change despite controversy.
Pawar’s involvement in the legislative process is especially important given the upcoming bill to amend provisions related to parliamentary representation in India, which could significantly alter Maharashtra’s influence by increasing Lok Sabha seats from 550 to 850 and shifting census-based delimitation powers.
This bill is an important step in the ongoing conversation about how we represent people in Parliament. It is especially relevant for Maharashtra and the southern states, where people are concerned about getting fair representation and sharing resources. The bill proposes increasing the number of parliamentary seats from 543 to 850 and introducing new rules for reporting census data. These changes could greatly impact the political landscape in these regions.
Sharad Pawar has the opportunity to build coalitions and address stakeholders’ concerns, which can foster confidence and optimism about his ability to influence Parliament’s support. As a pivotal figure in Maharashtra politics, Pawar has demonstrated resilience amid internal divisions within his Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). Following the tragic loss of his nephew, Ajit Pawar, in a plane crash in January 2026, the party has the chance to address succession challenges, with Ajit’s widow, Sunetra Pawar, stepping into the roles of Deputy Chief Minister and state party chief. Despite facing these challenges and ongoing factional issues, Sharad Pawar retains significant influence over the NCP. This situation presents a critical juncture for the party to regroup and develop innovative strategies to succeed in future Assembly elections.
Pawar faces pressure to merge with the NDA-aligned NCP faction. However, his search for a solution raises hope for stability while also highlighting concerns about ongoing factional conflicts.
This situation illustrates that Pawar is resolutely committed to preserving unity within the opposition and has consciously chosen to forgo any merger plans. His actions not only bolster his leadership but also demonstrate his support for political stability in Maharashtra, thereby enhancing confidence in his resolve.
Sharad Pawar’s faction has eight MPs in the Lok Sabha and plays an important role as the NDA seeks to strengthen its majority. This group’s support could be key to passing important laws, such as the women’s reservation bill, which proposes reserving 33 per cent of seats in Parliament and state Assemblies for women. If Pawar’s faction supports these reforms, it could significantly affect their implementation and influence the legislative process now and in the future.
Sharad Pawar reflects on his extensive political journey; he notes the significance of fleeting moments in politics, having ‘witnessed many sunrises and sunsets’, and remains cautious about his future alliances amid Maharashtra’s shifting landscape. Observers and political analysts are closely watching whether Pawar’s faction will align with the NDA or continue to navigate a complex, evolving political terrain that could reshape governance in Maharashtra and beyond.
At present, there is no official confirmation regarding a merger or the establishment of an NDA alliance. However, the series of events - such as reports of ongoing merger discussions, meetings between senior leaders from various political parties, and a separate discussion with Fadnavis on Tuesday night - indicates that talks are still underway behind the scenes. It is said that the two NCPs will merge first, and only then could they join the NDA.
Pawar has the option of going with the Congress too, but this will pose problems regarding his role and his daughter’s role in Congress.
The coming days will be crucial as the session unfolds, and the implications of these political manoeuvres will resonate beyond Parliament, shaping broader public perception of governance and representation in the region.
Following the tragic loss of his nephew, Ajit Pawar, in a plane crash in January 2026, the party has the chance to address succession challenges, with Ajit’s widow, Sunetra Pawar, stepping into the roles of Deputy Chief Minister and state party chief
The writer is a popular columnist; Views presented are personal.
