Eknath Khadse likely to join NCP on Oct 22

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar on Monday commented on the speculation of estranged senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Eknath Khadse defecting to his party. Pawar said that while Khadse's contribution to establishing the BJP in Maharashtra was immense, it was ultimately up to him to take a decision whether or not to join the NCP or any other party in the ruling Maha Vikas Aghadi government.

BJP leader Eknath Khadse's entry into the NCP has been discussed in political circles for the last several days. After NCP President Sharad Pawar's suggestive statement on Khadse on Monday, the topic has gained momentum. As per reports Eknath Khadse will join NCP on October 22.

Along with Eknath Khadse, his daughter Jalgaon District Bank President Rohini Khadse will also join the NCP. The joining ceremony will be held in the presence of Sharad Pawar in Mumbai. He will be accompanied by several of his supporters.

TV9 reported that Eknath Khadse will join the party at the NCP state office. Meanwhile, Khadse's daughter-in-law MP Raksha Khadse will remain in the BJP.

Eknath Khadse could be nominated for the state Legislative Council by Uddhav Thackeray-led Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government. Sources said there are also discussions to include Khadse in the cabinet.