In a significant blow to the Congress party in Maharashtra, former Chief Minister and veteran leader Ashok Chavan has tendered his resignation from the party membership. This move is considered a major setback for Congress just before the crucial 2024 Lok Sabha elections in the state. Ashok Chavan, who served as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra from December 2008 to November 2010, was regarded as one of the most influential leaders within the Maharashtra Congress, being the son of former Chief Minister Shankarrao Chavan.
Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis, commented on the matter, stating that several leaders from other parties are expressing interest in joining the BJP. He specifically mentioned that due to the behavior of senior Congress leaders, many of them are in contact with the BJP and feeling dissatisfied within their party. Fadnavis hinted that more details about leaders in contact with the BJP would be revealed soon, emphasizing the uncertainty of the situation.
Ashok Chavan’s resignation comes amid reports of discontent within the Maharashtra Congress, with senior leaders like Baba Siddique and Milind Deora leaving the party just days before. The speculations of Ashok Chavan joining the BJP have heightened political tensions in Maharashtra. Responding to the rumors, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis cryptically stated, “Let’s wait and see what unfolds in the future.”
In a letter addressed to Congress State President Nana Patole, Ashok Chavan officially announced his resignation, stepping down not only from party membership but also relinquishing his position as a legislator, submitting his resignation to the Speaker Rahul Narwekar. These developments foreshadow a turbulent political landscape as Maharashtra gears up for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
