India, Nov. 15 -- With speculation about a merger between the rival NCP factions subsiding, Shiv Sena (UBT) mouthpiece Saamana launched a sharp attack on the Sharad Pawar-led NCP (SP). It warned Pawar against ruining his political legacy by engaging with a faction that "grovels at the BJP's feet". The editorial said that while a handful of leaders in his party may be eager for ministerial berths, Pawar should not sacrifice his political legacy for their ambitions.

Titled 'Let's play the merger game', the editorial added, "At a time when Sharad Pawar's party is part of the Maha Vikas Aghadi and the INDIA bloc, entertaining such discussions is damaging to his political image."

It also said senior NCP (SP) leaders, including Supriya Sule, ...