PUNE:  In a significant political shift, Raje Samarjeetsinh Ghatge, a descendent of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, on Friday announced his decision to join the Nationalist Congress Party led by the Sharad Pawar (NCP-SP) and his formal induction into the NCP-SP is scheduled for September 3, 2024, during a rally where Pawar is expected to be present. The decision of Ghatge is considered to be a setback to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as he was a prominent leader from Kolhapur and a close aide to Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, has announced 

Ghatge, who has been a key figure in Kolhapur politics, previously contested the assembly elections in 2019 as an independent candidate but lost to Hasan Mushrif the current MLA from the Kagal constituency, which is held by the Ajit Pawar-led faction of the NCP. His decision to switch parties comes amid speculation that he was dissatisfied with the BJP's internal dynamics and the prospects of securing a ticket for the upcoming assembly elections, and it is almost certain that he would most likely contest against Mushrif who is a minister belonging to the Ajit Pawar led NCP faction.

Political analysts are saying Ghatge's alignment with the NCP could strengthen Pawar's position in Kolhapur, a region that has been pivotal in Maharashtra's political landscape. Ghatge has expressed that his decision is motivated by a desire to work for the welfare of his constituency and its people.

The announcement has sparked discussions within political circles, with BJP leaders acknowledging the challenges posed by Ghatge's departure. The development is also significat considering the news that Ajit Pawar’s arch-rival and BJP leader Harshvardhan Patil, is also said to be in touch with the NCP-SP faction. 

Chandrashekhar Bawankule, BJP's state chief, remarked that the party cannot prevent those who have made up their minds to leave. Meanwhile, Ghatge's supporters have rallied behind him, indicating a strong local backing for his transition to the NCP.

As Ghatge prepares to join the NCP, the political dynamics in Kolhapur are expected to shift, especially with the assembly elections on the horizon. His entry into the NCP could potentially alter the electoral landscape, especially against the backdrop of recent defections and realignments within Maharashtra's political parties. The NCP, under Pawar's leadership, is gearing up to capitalize on this momentum as it seeks to reclaim influence in regions previously dominated by the BJP.