Sharad Pawar

News India Xtra@newsIndiaxtra

Sanjay Raut of Shiv Sena (UBT) says 20 to 22 MLAs from Sunetra Pawar's NCP could break away before the next elections, either returning to Sharad Pawar's faction or joining other parties.

He says these legislators feel sidelined since Ajit Pawar's death. A return to Sharad Pawar's camp would be a homecoming, not a formal merger.

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis says any merger must be discussed with the BJP first, a condition Raut says does not apply to Sharad Pawar's party. Sunetra Pawar has neither confirmed nor denied the talks.

News India Xtra@newsIndiaxtra

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde visited NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar at Mumbai's Breach Candy Hospital. Shinde said doctors have confirmed his health readings are normal and he may be discharged soon.

They also discussed drought and water shortages affecting farmers in Satara and Mahabaleshwar. Shinde called the visit non-political and urged Pawar to rest fully before resuming work.

Doctor Pratit Samdani said Pawar is responding well to treatment.