Despite extensive lobbying efforts, the Ajit Pawar faction of the NCP has failed to secure a position within the NDA government. Leaders of the NCP expressed disappointment after spending nearly two hours at MP Sunil Tatkare’s residence in Delhi. The responsibility of persuading Ajit Pawar fell upon DCM Devendra Fadnavis from the BJP, resulting in a meeting between Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar lasting for one and a half hours.
Within the Ajit Pawar camp, Praful Patel, a seasoned ministerial figure with previous experience in Civil and Aviation Ministries, seemed a likely contender. However, Patel was overlooked for a cabinet ministerial position, purportedly due to strategic considerations for upcoming assembly elections. This decision stirred speculation and disappointment within the ranks.
Ajit Pawar’s NCP ultimately failed to secure any ministerial posts in the NDA government, with the party being offered only Minister of State positions, which Patel declined. Supriya Sule, NCP MP and daughter of Sharad Pawar, expressed her lack of surprise at Ajit Pawar’s faction being sidelined, citing a decade of observation of BJP and allied parties’ behavior.
Rumors of discord between BJP and NCP’s Ajit Pawar emerged swiftly, prompting the NCP to issue a clarification emphasizing the unity of their alliance. Praful Patel, addressing the media, stated that despite initial offers of a Minister of State position with independent charge, he personally considered it a demotion, having previously served as a cabinet minister. BJP leaders were informed of this stance, and assurances were given regarding finding a resolution.