Eknath Khadse's Unlikely Return to BJP: Internal Conflicts Surface

Eknath Khadse, a senior political figure currently with the NCP, expressed doubts about rejoining the BJP, citing internal party resistance, especially from Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Despite earlier willingness, no official BJP announcement has been made, although his daughter-in-law was renominated and given a ministerial role.

On Tuesday, senior leader Eknath Khadse indicated that his return to the BJP seems improbable, pointing to Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis as a potential barrier. He mentioned he was never eager to rejoin the BJP, though senior party members had encouraged it.

Khadse's remarks come amidst speculation of his BJP re-induction, as the party recently renominated his daughter-in-law, Raksha Khadse, for a Lok Sabha seat, subsequently appointing her as a Union Minister of State post-election victory.

Despite Khadse's earlier openness to rejoin, no confirmation from the BJP has surfaced. Khadse blamed Fadnavis and local rival Girish Mahajan for stalling his return, highlighting ongoing internal disputes. Mahajan countered by accusing Khadse of seeking undue political power for his family.

(With inputs from agencies.)