India, July 29 -- On a day when NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar dismissed speculation about a merger with the rival NCP faction, saying there was "no question of it", trustees of Baramati-based Vidya Pratishthan urged him to invite Prime Minister Narendra Modi to inaugurate the institution's newly built "Prernasthal".

The development assumes significance amid renewed political speculation over the Pawar-led NCP (SP)'s alleged proximity to the BJP-led NDA and improving ties between the two NCP factions.

The "Prernasthal", a dome housing a statue of Lord Buddha along with exhibits on eminent social reformers and historical figures, is scheduled to be inaugurated in October, a trustee of the institution said.

A trustee of Vidya Pratishthan, t...