GG News Bureau
Mumbai, 12th July: In what appears to be a significant organisational shift ahead of Maharashtra’s civic elections, senior NCP (Sharad Pawar) leader and former minister Jayant Patil has reportedly expressed his intent to step down as the party’s state unit president after a tenure of over seven years.
Sources within the party suggest that Patil is likely to be succeeded by MLC Shashikant Shinde, a prominent Maratha face from Western Maharashtra, known for his proximity to Sharad Pawar and Supriya Sule. Shinde’s elevation is being viewed as an effort to consolidate the party’s traditional Maratha base while also attempting to manage internal tensions, particularly with the rising influence of Rohit Pawar.
However, NCP leader Jitendra Awhad dismissed reports of Patil’s resignation, calling them “mischief.” Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Awhad stated, “Jayant Patil Saheb is the state president. The news of his resignation being circulated is nothing but mischief. The party operates according to rules and discipline.”
Despite this rebuttal, sources indicate that a formal announcement could be made on July 15, during a key office-bearers’ meeting at Mumbai’s YB Chavan Centre, which will be presided over by party supremo Sharad Pawar.
Jayant Patil had earlier voiced his willingness to step down during the NCP’s foundation day event on June 10, stating, “It’s time to give younger leaders a chance.” However, his remarks were met with vocal resistance from party workers who interrupted him mid-speech.
His tenure as state chief saw the party navigating through crucial highs and lows — from the formation of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance and a brief return to power, to the dramatic 2023 split that saw a faction break away under Ajit Pawar. While the NCP (Sharad Pawar) group regained momentum with a respectable performance in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, it suffered a setback in the state assembly elections, winning only 10 seats.
The Patil-Rohit Pawar rivalry has become increasingly visible since the Lok Sabha polls, with both leaders trading subtle jabs. Notably, Patil said in June, “Some people are counting the days until my term ends. Give me four months – we’ll bring a new government. After that, I’ll step down.”
Shinde’s likely appointment is seen as part of Sharad Pawar’s broader strategy to manage generational friction within the party and refocus ahead of municipal elections. It could also reflect a desire to refresh leadership while keeping loyalists close.
A clearer picture is expected to emerge following the July 15 meeting. Until then, speculation continues over whether Patil’s departure is imminent or if internal pressures are being strategically managed.
