Ajit meets Pawar Sr on birthday, sparks speculation | India News – Times of India

PUNE: Maharashtra deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar’s unscheduled visit to his uncle and NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar’s residence in Delhi on Thursday to wish him on his birthday has led to speculation of a reunion, reports Anurag Bende.
Both NCP factions, who carried out fierce campaigns against each other in the Lok Sabha and assembly polls this year, chose not to divulge details of the discussion.
Ajit Pawar was accompanied by his wife Sunetra, a Rajya Sabha MP, elder son Parth, and senior party members including Praful Patel, Sunil Tatkare, and Chhagan Bhujbal, when he visited Pawar’s house. Pawar’s daughter Lok Sabha MP Supriya Sule and grandnephew Yugendra were also present.
Interacting with the media, Ajit Pawar said, “Since it was his birthday, we all came to wish him. We discussed the violence in Parbhani, Parliament disruption, and cabinet expansion plans in the state.” This is the first time since the split in the Pawar family and NCP that Ajit Pawar has taken the initiative to meet his uncle. Even when he shared the stage with him in public functions, he did not speak to his uncle.
Political observers said Thursday’s meeting indicates a change in strategy. Political analyst Prakash Pawar said, “This meeting points to future calculations by both considering their positions and that of their factions. While Sharad Pawar got 12% votes, Ajit Pawar’s party received a 10% share. If these vote shares are combined, NCP will be the biggest gainer in the assembly poll.”