Madhavrao Kinhalkar Joins Sharad Pawar's NCP (SP)

Former Maharashtra minister and BJP veteran Madhavrao Kinhalkar has joined Sharad Pawar's NCP (SP). This move comes as political dynamics in the state shift ahead of the assembly elections, with various leaders realigning. Kinhalkar cited the changed character of the BJP as the reason for his switch.

In a significant political shift, former Maharashtra minister and BJP veteran Madhavrao Kinhalkar has joined the Sharad Pawar camp. The move comes just days after several functionaries from the rival NCP faction led by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar switched their allegiance to NCP (SP), altering the political landscape ahead of the assembly elections.

Meeting at Shirur MP Amol Kolhe's residence in Pune, MLA Atul Benke of the Ajit Pawar camp signaled the evolving political scenario. This follows senior NCP leader and minister Chhagan Bhujbal's appeal to Sharad Pawar to address the OBC-Maratha quota conflict.

Kinhalkar's defection from the BJP is seen as part of a larger trend of strategic realignments in Maharashtra politics, aiming to influence the upcoming elections. His shift is particularly impactful in the Marathwada region, which is central to the Maratha quota agitation.

(With inputs from agencies.)