Pune: Amid growing speculation, Bachchu Kadu, the leader of Prahar Janshakti, may be considering an exit from the Mahayuti (Grand Alliance).
Kadu held a meeting with NCP's Sharad Pawar at Modi Baug in Pune, sparking rumors that he might align with the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) ahead of the upcoming assembly elections.
While Kadu has publicly stated that he has no immediate plans to leave the Mahayuti or join the MVA, political observers suggest that his meeting with Pawar could be a strategic move to apply pressure on the Mahayuti.
Kadu emphasized that his meeting with Pawar was pre-arranged and focused on issues affecting farmers, farm laborers, and the differently-abled.
Kadu stated, "We are willing to do whatever it takes for the welfare of farmers, farm laborers, and the differently-abled. A decision on our political alliances will be made after September 1. Until then, we have given the government time to address our demands."
He further clarified that he is not dissatisfied but insists that the government's response to the issues raised must be satisfactory.
The Sharad Pawar-led faction of the NCP (Sharad Pawar NCP) has launched its Shivsanman Yatra from Shivneri, Shivaji Maharaj's birthplace, in preparation for the upcoming assembly elections.
This development has fueled speculation of potential internal conflicts within both the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) and the MahaYuti alliances, particularly regarding the distribution of tickets.
However, the MahaYuti alliance encountered an early challenge as Sharad Sonawane, the former MLA from Junnar and a member of the Shinde faction of Shiv Sena, held a meeting with NCP leader Jayant Patil, followed by a meal together.
With current MLAs expected to be given priority, other contenders are reportedly exploring alternative alliances. In this light, Sonawane's meeting with Jayant Patil is being closely watched.
Just days ago, Junnar MLA Atul Benke, affiliated with Ajit Pawar's faction of the NCP, also met with Sharad Pawar, adding to the intrigue. Sonawane’s recent contact with Sharad Pawar’s faction has raised eyebrows in political circles.