Political Shakeup: Thane NCP Leader Suhas Desai Switches Allegiances

In a surprising turn of events, Suhas Desai, the Thane city president of the Opposition NCP under Sharad Pawar, crossed over to the rival faction of the Nationalist Congress Party led by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. The switch was marked by a formal event attended by prominent political figures.

Desai, accompanied by over two dozen followers, joined the ruling coalition at a brief ceremony hosted in the NCP office in Thane. This development is considered a significant organizational setback for Sharad Pawar's party as it gears up for the forthcoming rural and urban civic elections in Maharashtra, especially affecting the Thane-Palghar region.

The defection event, which took place opposite the bungalow of local MLA Jitendra Awhad, was seen as a notable political maneuver. Ajit Pawar, alongside senior NCP leader Anand Paranjpe and district president Najeeb Mulla, warmly welcomed Desai into the party fold, terming the move a 'big jolt' to the rival faction.

(With inputs from agencies.)