THANE: Maharashtra Nationalist Congress Party (SP) president Shashikant Shinde on Wednesday firmly declared that the possibility of a merger with the ruling Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) is now completely off the table, putting an end to ongoing speculation.

Addressing the media after a crucial party meeting chaired by NCP (SP) supremo Sharad Pawar, Shinde said the party’s primary focus is on strengthening its organisational structure and intensifying public agitations under the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) banner across Maharashtra.

The remarks come amid fresh speculation triggered by a recent meeting between Sharad Pawar and senior NCP leader Sunil Tatkare. Shinde made it clear that there would be no further discussions on any kind of unification with the faction led by Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar.

“There is no question of any merger with the ruling NCP. The issue is completely over. I had said this earlier, and I am repeating it again — there will be no such discussion in the future,” Shinde asserted.

The meeting, attended by MPs, MLAs, former candidates, office-bearers, and grassroots workers, was convened to assess the current political situation in the state and the country, and to devise strategies for reviving the party as a strong and effective opposition force under Sharad Pawar’s leadership.

Shinde added that several leaders and workers expressed their views during the meeting and emphasised the need to strengthen the party at the booth level. He also acknowledged criticism regarding some leaders not being visible during public agitations and assured that the party leadership would give priority to active and dedicated workers.

The undivided NCP, founded by Sharad Pawar in 1999, had split in 2023 after Ajit Pawar and several of his supporters joined the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance. The Election Commission later recognised Ajit Pawar’s faction as the original NCP. With the merger chapter now firmly closed, the NCP (SP) appears determined to rebuild itself as a robust opposition party in Maharashtra.