Shiv Sena (UBT) Criticizes NCP Merger Talks as 'Ridiculous Laughing Stock'
Shiv Sena (UBT) Criticizes NCP Merger Talks as 'Ridiculous Laughing Stock'
The Shiv Sena (UBT) has sharply criticized ongoing merger negotiations with the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) faction led by Sharad Pawar, describing the initiative as a 'ridiculous laughing stock.' In an editorial published in its mouthpiece, Saamna, the party warned that engaging in such talks would damage Sharad Pawar’s political image and create confusion within Maharashtra.
The Shiv Sena (UBT) has launched a sharp critique against the ongoing merger negotiations with the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) faction led by Sharad Pawar, characterizing the initiative as a "ridiculous laughing stock." In an editorial published in its official mouthpiece, Saamna, on Saturday, the party argued that such discussions are detrimental to Sharad Pawar’s political standing and undermine the traditions of Maharashtra.
The editorial asserted that it is inappropriate for Sharad Pawar to engage in talks with a group described as "BJP’s lapdog," warning that doing so would foster an atmosphere of confusion and suspicion across the state. The party emphasized that while there may be a few individuals within Pawar’s faction eager for ministerial positions, the leader himself should not compromise the principles he has upheld throughout his career.
"Netas like Sharad Pawar, Supriya Sule, Jayant Patil, Shashikant Shinde should not get carried away in this game," the editorial stated. It further noted that the "game of merger is becoming ridiculous day by day," suggesting that the political maneuvering has lost its legitimacy.
The commentary also addressed recent statements by NCP (SP) MP Supriya Sule, who had declared that the "curtain has fallen" on the merger drama. The Shiv Sena (UBT) editorial countered this claim, arguing that key players within the NCP faction remain unwilling to accept the end of these negotiations. The party described the Amit Shah-sponsored NCP faction as lacking ideological grounding and characterized its members as traders driven by power rather than principle.
The editorial highlighted internal tensions within the NCP (SP) ranks, noting that senior leaders Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare are now operating under the leadership of Parth Pawar. It pointed out a shift in allegiance, stating that while Patel and Tatkare may view Amit Shah as their leader, the actual authority within the party has shifted to Parth Pawar. This dynamic, the editorial suggested, has sparked infighting among senior members.
The piece urged Sharad Pawar to reflect on his legacy, referencing the ideological foundations laid by Shahu, Jyotirao Phule, B.R. Ambedkar, and Yashwantrao Chavan. It warned that discarding these values for political expediency would be a significant departure from the party’s historical identity.
The criticism comes at a time when the NCP is navigating complex political alliances. The Shiv Sena (UBT) reiterated its stance that such merger discussions are damaging to Sharad Pawar’s image, particularly while his party remains part of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) and the INDIA bloc. The editorial concluded by questioning who would ultimately merge with whom in what it described as a farcical political game.
A.Andersson--StDgbl
