Raje Samarjeetsinh Ghatge Joins Sharad Pawar-led NCP (SP)

Raje Samarjeetsinh Ghatge, a prominent BJP leader from Kolhapur, has announced his decision to join the Sharad Pawar-led NCP (SP) on September 3. This move comes after consulting his supporters and informing Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis of his plans.

Raje Samarjeetsinh Ghatge, a notable BJP leader from Kolhapur and a close associate of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, declared his intent to join the Sharad Pawar-led NCP (SP) on Friday, September 3.

Ghatge's announcement followed a meeting with his supporters in Kagal, Kolhapur, where he also revealed he had discussed the matter with Fadnavis.

Ghatge, who aspired to contest from Kagal on a BJP ticket—a seat currently held by Hasan Mushrif of the Ajit Pawar-led NCP—had to reconsider due to the expected allocation of seats in the ruling alliance. The assembly polls are anticipated in October-November. 'I have spoken to my leader Fadnavis saheb and conveyed my decision. I will not comment further,' he said.

Speculation about Ghatge's switch to NCP (SP) intensified following his meeting with Sharad Pawar. The meeting in Kagal, attended by NCP (SP) Maharashtra chief Jayant Patil, saw Ghatge's supporters expressing their approval of the move.

'Ghatge will officially join the NCP (SP) on September 3 in the presence of Sharad Pawar,' confirmed Patil.

(With inputs from agencies.)