Former BJP MLA Bapu Pathare Joins NCP

Former BJP MLA Bapusaheb Pathare has officially rejoined the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) led by Sharad Pawar, a move anticipated to significantly impact the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections. Pathare's return to the NCP, where he previously served as an MLA, comes amid allegations against current NCP MLA Sunil Tingre, who is embroiled in controversy over a recent Porsche car accident. Pathare's switch is seen as a major setback for the BJP, which has been facing internal conflicts, and has prompted speculations of further defections within the party. Alongside Pathare, several former corporators joined the NCP during the announcement, indicating a potential shift in local political dynamics. The NCP expects to capitalize on Pathare's local support as it prepares candidates for the elections, potentially contesting against Tingre, who is aligned with the Ajit Pawar faction. This development contributes to the ongoing political realignment as parties gear up for the elections, with both the Mahayuti and the Maha Vikas Aghadi intensifying their strategies.