Maharashtra: BJP’s incoming raises Shiv Sena’s ire in Osmanabad

Since last many years the political landscape of Osmanabad was dominated by the rivalry between the Patil and their cousin- the family of the late Pawanraje Nimbalkar. Before his murder in 2006, Nimbalkar was the closest confidant of Padmasinh and had handled the running of the now defunct cooperative sugar mill there. Padmasinh the then sitting MP from Osmanabad was arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigations(CBI) in 2009 for his alleged role in the murder. The case is still going on.

Following the murder Omprakash had joined Shiv Sena and has been continuing the political fight in Osmanabad. During the 2019 election he defeated Ranajagjitsinh by over 1 lakh votes. Thus the decision of the BJP to induct his arch rival into their fold has not gone down well with the MP.

While speaking to The Indian Express, Nimbalkar question how can the BJP support someone who can leave Pawar and NCP after enjoying the perks of power for more than 40 years. “For the last four decades they had enjoyed power and did not do anything for the district. What development will he be able to do now?” he asked. The MP said he has expressed his displeasure to the chief minister personally.

Asked about his stand in regards to the upcoming state assembly elections, Nimbalkar said as an alliance member they will not be able to work for a person whom they have opposed for their entire political life. “While the BJP as a party has all the rights to expand but the very basis which made people elect us is being challenged here,” he said.