Pune: With the Maharashtra Assembly elections approaching, rumors are swirling about several leaders from Ajit Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) planning to switch loyalties to Sharad Pawar's faction.

Sharad Pawar himself hinted at this during a public rally in Indapur, where he revealed that many leaders are interested in joining his side of the party. This statement has triggered a series of high-profile meetings and movements within the political landscape.

One of the key figures sparking curiosity is former Bhosari MLA Vilas Lande, who recently met Sharad Pawar at Modibaug. Lande, who had initially aligned with Ajit Pawar after the NCP split, is reportedly unhappy after being denied a ticket to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha elections from Shirur.

His absence from Ajit Pawar's recent tour of Bhosari has only added fuel to the speculation that he might be preparing to sever ties with Ajit Pawar.

Rumors suggest that Vilas Lande is in close contact with Sharad Pawar and could soon announce his shift to the latter's faction. Lande’s growing distance from Ajit Pawar, coupled with his absence from key political events, has raised eyebrows, leading many to believe that Ajit Pawar may be facing a significant political blow in his own stronghold.

Vilas Lande’s political journey has not been without its challenges. He has faced back-to-back electoral defeats in Bhosari, losing twice to BJP’s Mahesh Landge.

The disappointment of being denied a Lok Sabha ticket seems to have deepened his discontent, fueling the ongoing speculation about his next political move. Will he join Sharad Pawar's faction or continue with Ajit Pawar? The political corridors of Maharashtra are eagerly awaiting his decision.