Day after quitting Congress Ashok Chavan likely to join BJP
PTC News Desk: Chavan's move comes just a day after he resigned from the Congress party, dealing a significant blow to the party's prospects in Maharashtra ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The Congress is set to contest the elections as part of the INDIA bloc, alongside Uddhav Sena and Sharad Pawar's NCP.
On Monday, Chavan did not disclose his future plans, stating that he was not engaged in discussions with any political party. However, he indicated that he would reveal his next steps within the next 48 hours. While speculation has been circulating that he would align with the BJP, Chavan denied any direct association with the party on Monday, asserting that he had not yet made any definitive decisions.
Chavan's potential defection to the BJP marks a significant development for the party, as it represents the first high-profile exit from the Maharashtra Congress that could directly benefit the BJP. Previous exits, such as those of Milind Deora and Baba Siddique, saw individuals align with BJP's allies in Maharashtra, such as Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena and Ajit Pawar's NCP, rather than the BJP itself.
Also Read: Punjab farmers heading to Delhi; borders sealed; Centre-farmer dialogue scheduled today
Also Read: What are the key demands of farmers are still unresolved?
Following Ashok Chavan's departure, speculation arises over his potential candidacy for a Rajya Sabha position under the BJP. Uddhav Thackeray criticizes this possibility, citing disrespect to fallen soldiers if Chavan were to receive the nomination.
Thackeray highlights previous allegations of corruption against Chavan by PM Modi and Deputy CM Fadnavis, emphasising their implications for soldiers' families. Chavan, on the other hand, clarifies that he has resigned from various Congress roles and has yet to decide on joining any party.
After Ashok Chavan's unexpected resignation, the Congress is in a state of urgency, with the likelihood of many MLAs following suit. Ramesh Chenniyhala, Maharashtra Congress in-charge, has convened a crucial meeting of party leaders in Mumbai. Sanjay Nirupam, a Congress leader, mentioned that Ashok Chavan expressed dissatisfaction with the working methods of one particular Congress leader, namely Nana Patole.
Also Read: Delhi Airport issues advisory for passengers ahead of farmers' protest on Feb 13
(Inputs from agencies)
-
