NCP MP from Satara set to resign, join BJP

Bhosale will resign as MP and seek re-election, said his aide Milind Gaiwkad. “Accompanied by the Chief Minister (Devendra Fadnavis), he will fly to Delhi from Pune in a chartered plane. Around 9 pm, he will submit his resignation to the Lok Sabha Speaker,” he said.

According to sources, the delay in Bhosale joining BJP was caused due to several conditions he set, including his insistence on joining the party in the presence of the Prime Minister.

Bhosale met Pawar on Wednesday, triggering speculation that he had decided against quitting the NCP. However, NCP sources have said he met Pawar to seek his blessings and thank him for his support during his time in the party.

NCP spokesperson Nawab Malik underplayed Bhosale’s exit. “It’s good riddance for us. Henceforth, there will be no trouble in our Satara unit…” he said.

BJP leaders said Bhosale’s entry will strengthen the party not just in Satara but across Maharashtra. “His entry will help the party consolidate Maratha votes. Since he Shivaji’s direct descendant, he commands immense respect among the people,” a BJP leader said.