Senior NCP leader Praful Patel visited hospitalized NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar in Mumbai, asserting that family ties remain strong despite past political differences, while both factions continue to dismiss rumors of a political merger amidst growing political buzz.

Senior NCP leader Praful Patel visited hospitalized NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar in Mumbai, asserting that family ties remain strong despite past political differences, while both factions continue to dismiss rumors of a political merger amidst growing political buzz.

Senior NCP leader Praful Patel visited hospitalized NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar in Mumbai, asserting that family ties remain strong despite past political differences, while both factions continue to dismiss rumors of a political merger amidst growing political buzz.

Amid ongoing political speculation, senior NCP leader Praful Patel visited NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar at Mumbai's Breach Candy Hospital on Thursday night. Speaking to reporters, Patel asserted that there was never any bitterness between them. 

"There were political differences, but there was never any bitterness. I have always continued meeting Pawar saheb from time to time. We have family relations, which will continue," Patel said.

He also said that there were discussions on the prevailing political situation. 

A video showing both leaders engaged in conversation surfaced on social media. Pawar reportedly told Patel that they would sit down to discuss matters after November 10.

This development coincides with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's phone call inquiring about Sharad Pawar's health, during which he remarked that Baramati MP Supriya Sule is 'ready to handle national responsibilities alongside us.' The PM's warm exchange has naturally sparked political buzz, with analysts speculating whether it points to a potential realignment of relations or simply reflects bipartisan courtesy toward the veteran leader.

The 85-year-old NCP (SP) supremo was admitted to the south Mumbai hospital on Wednesday after discharge from Pune's Ruby Hall Clinic, where he was undergoing treatment since Monday.

The Sharad Pawar-founded NCP split in 2023 after a group of party leaders, including Patel, joined the ruling Mahayuti alliance in Maharashtra under the leadership of late Ajit Pawar. 

Praful Patel's visit to Pawar came against the backdrop of senior NCP leaders meeting Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi without party chief Sunetra Pawar or her sons, Parth and Jay. The high-level meeting with Shah followed reports of growing discontent among the leadership over Parth Pawar's expanding influence within the party. 

The NCP and NCP (SP) have formally dismissed talks of a merger. Emphasising his stand, Sharad Pawar stated that while his party will not merge with any political outfit, leaders wishing to join it independently are welcome. 

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