Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan, who resigned from the Congress yesterday, is reportedly set to join the BJP today, according to sources. Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is expected to welcome him into the party, and there are indications that Chavan might be offered a Rajya Sabha seat. The move comes amidst Chavan’s differences with state Congress chief Nana Patole and concerns over seat-sharing within the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance. Chavan’s exit poses another setback for the Maharashtra Congress ahead of state and general elections.
Chavan had mentioned his resignation from the Congress Working Committee and primary membership, expressing discontent over the delay in finalizing seat-sharing within the alliance. Sanjay Nirupam, a Mumbai Congress leader, suggested that Chavan was upset with the working style of a Congress leader in Maharashtra. Congress leaders, including Jairam Ramesh and Nana Patole, expressed disappointment over leaders leaving the party.
Ashok Chavan, the son of former Chief Minister Shankarrao Chavan, holds significant influence in the Nanded region. His exit comes at a crucial time for the Maha Vikas Aghadi, facing challenges in the upcoming polls. Chavan has had a notable political journey, serving as an MP, state minister, and Chief Minister before stepping down amid corruption allegations related to the Adarsh Housing Society scam.