Political Shifts: Harshvardhan Patil's Move Ahead of Maharashtra Elections

Harshvardhan Patil, a BJP leader, met NCP chief Sharad Pawar amid speculations of joining Pawar's party ahead of Maharashtra's state assembly elections. Patil, a former MLA and minister, might switch sides, possibly contesting from Indapur, currently held by NCP's Dattatray Bharne. Chandrakant Patil criticized the move.

Harshvardhan Patil, a prominent BJP leader in Maharashtra, met with NCP chief Sharad Pawar in Mumbai on Thursday, sparking speculations of a political realignment ahead of the upcoming state assembly elections.

Patil disclosed that during the meeting at Pawar's Silver Oaks residence in south Mumbai, Pawar urged him to join the NCP and assured his election, should he contest on their behalf. Meanwhile, BJP state minister Chandrakant Patil critiqued the move, suggesting Harshvardhan Patil might regret his decision.

Having been an MLA from Indapur for four terms, Patil aims to contest from this seat again, which is currently represented by NCP's Dattatray Bharne. Harshvardhan Patil's political journey includes roles in the Shiv Sena-BJP alliance and the Congress-NCP alliance governments.

(With inputs from agencies.)