Samarjeetsinh Ghatge, a BJP leader and member of the royal family of Kolhapur, has announced his decision to join the NCP (SCP) led by Sharad Pawar. Ghatge, who has previously run as an Independent in the 2019 elections, cited consultations with top BJP leaders, including Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, before making the switch. His move is seen as a significant setback for the BJP, especially in the politically crucial region of western Maharashtra. Ghatge will be officially inducted into the NCP (SCP) during a public rally in Kagal on September 3, and he is expected to contest against Hasan Mushrif for the Kagal assembly seat. Additionally, senior BJP leader Harshvardhan Patil is also reportedly in talks with the NCP (SCP), indicating further potential shifts in the political landscape.