Harshvardhan Patil Jumps Ship: From BJP to NCP's Stable

Maharashtra BJP leader Harshvardhan Patil announced his decision to join the NCP (SP) with his supporters, after a meeting with party chief Sharad Pawar. Patil, a four-time MLA from Indapur, cited the political dynamics around the upcoming assembly elections as prompting his move.

In a significant political shift, Maharashtra BJP leader Harshvardhan Patil declared his intention to join the NCP (SP) along with his supporters. The announcement came on Friday, following a pivotal meeting with NCP chief Sharad Pawar, where Patil claimed he was encouraged to make the move ahead of the state's assembly elections.

The assembly elections in Maharashtra are anticipated to take place next month. Patil, who has represented the Indapur seat as MLA four times, expressed his desire to contest from the same constituency again. This decision pits him against sitting MLA Dattatraya Bharne, who the NCP is likely to field once more.

Patil reported having a detailed discussion with Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis about his political future. Despite an offered alternative that Patil found personally feasible, he stated that it would not be acceptable to his supporters. Ultimately, he and his followers chose to join the NCP (SP), marking a noteworthy shift in Maharashtra's political landscape.

(With inputs from agencies.)