Shiv Sena leader Sachin Ahir speaks on NCP merger rumors during top-level visits

Merger Talks and Political Visits

Shiv Sena leader Sachin Ahir stated that the merger of the two Nationalist Congress Party factions is an internal matter of their party. He noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Baramati, while Union Home Minister Amit Shah is visiting Pune.

Leaders' Stances

Leaders from both NCP factions have previously said the merger topic is closed. Supriya Sule stated no such proposal came forward and that while a merger might have happened when Ajit Pawar was present, that chapter is finished. Sunil तटकरे said their remarks reflected their political strategy. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and NCP national president and Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar held a two-hour meeting, after which the Chief Minister clarified that they only discussed routine work and that no party merger will happen without their prior knowledge.

Traffic Changes in Pune

Due to Union Home Minister Amit Shah's visit to Pune, traffic changes are in place for two days. Heavy vehicles are banned, and several roads are designated as no-parking zones for safety reasons. Events featuring Amit Shah include the unveiling of an Ajit Pawar statue, a coffee-table book launch, and a short film screening at Nehru Memorial Hall, with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Union Minister of State Murlidhar Mohol, Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar, and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde attending.

Context

High-profile political visits by national leaders often prompt local security adjustments, such as traffic diversions and parking restrictions in major cities like Pune. At the same time, discussions surrounding party realignments and coalition dynamics remain a central focus for political developments in Maharashtra.