Pune: The Sharad Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party (NCP SP) has managed to pull former MLA Bapusaheb Pathare into its fold.

Pathare, who represented the Wadgaon Sheri constituency in Pune, announced that he would contest the upcoming elections with the NCP’s "Tutari" (man blowing a trumpet) symbol, a decision that has sent ripples through the BJP camp.

The announcement came on the first day of the Ganesh festival when Pathare, during his visits to various Ganesh mandals, publicly declared his intention to contest under the "Tutari" symbol.

A video has surfaced showing Pathare addressing his supporters, urging them to rally behind the "Tutari" and vote for it in the upcoming polls.

For weeks, speculation had been rife about Pathare’s next political move, as he was seen engaging with NCP leaders and distancing himself from BJP activities.

His declaration during the festive Ganeshotsav season adds a dramatic twist to the political landscape, with the NCP (SP) gaining momentum against the BJP in the Wadgaon Sheri constituency, which is part of the broader Mahayuti alliance.

Pathare’s defection is seen as a strategic win for the NCP (SP) as it bolsters its position in the key Pune region. Wadgaon Sheri, a crucial constituency, was previously under BJP’s control, and Pathare’s allegiance to NCP could influence voter sentiment significantly.

Pathare has been vocal about his desire to contest from Wadgaon Sheri, and his shift to NCP appears to be a well-calculated move after months of speculated meetings with NCP leadership.

The NCP’s "Tutari" symbol, which Pathare will contest under, is symbolic of the party's renewed focus on grassroots mobilization and reclaiming lost territories from BJP dominance.

Pathare’s switch also reflects broader political realignments in Maharashtra, where parties are vying for influential leaders to strengthen their base ahead of the crucial elections.