Chandrahar Patil: A shock to Uddhav Thackeray's Shiv Sena! Is Chandrahar Patil destined to join Shinde's Shiv Sena?
In what appears to be another significant blow to Uddhav Thackeray's Shiv Sena, speculation is rife that prominent leader Chandrahar Patil is set to join the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction. Sources indicate that the formal induction will take place tomorrow at 5 PM in Nehru Nagar, Thane, in the presence of several key political leaders from the ruling faction. The event is expected to witness the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, along with MPs Shrikant Shinde, Naresh Mhaske, Dhairyashil Mane, Sangli MLA Suhas Babar, and Ministers Uday Samant, Sanjay Shirsat, Shambhuraj Desai, Prakash Abitkar, and Pratap Sarnaik. The scale of the event indicates its political significance, with an estimated 5,000 to 7,000 supporters likely to accompany Patil during his switch.
Big Role Ahead for Chandrahar Patil
Sources suggest that Chandrahar Patil may be entrusted with a significant responsibility within the Shinde camp. Discussions are reportedly underway regarding his potential candidacy for an MLC seat in the Legislative Council, appointed by the Governor. In addition, his role in upcoming local body elections is also under active consideration. The political maneuver is believed to be the result of coordinated efforts by Minister Uday Samant and Sangli MLA Suhas Babar, who have been working behind the scenes to bring Patil into the fold. Their efforts appear to have paid off, signaling a strategic win for the Shinde-led faction ahead of key electoral contests.
If confirmed, Patil’s defection would mark another notable loss for Uddhav Thackeray, who continues to face challenges in retaining key leaders within his party. The growing exodus to the Shinde faction underscores the shifting political landscape in Maharashtra’s Sena politics. More details are expected to emerge following the official induction ceremony.