On the backdrop of some opposition leaders trying to reconnect with the Mahayuti government, former minister and NCP (SP) leader Harshvardhan Patil’s presence at Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis’ welcome event on Saturday sparked fresh political speculation.
Fadnavis was visiting the Neera Narsinghpur Temple in Indapur, where Patil greeted him, prompting rumors of renewed ties. Addressing the buzz, Patil clarified, “This is CM Fadnavis’ first visit to Indapur since returning to office. Lakshmi Narasimha is his family deity, and as the CM was visiting my constituency, we welcomed him. However, this is strictly a private visit with no political discussions.”
He further said, “I myself am a worker, so naturally, many workers accompanied me. I am not some big leader. I met many old friends today, and in politics, we met each other.”
During the Assembly elections, Patil had joined Sharad Pawar’s NCP after being denied a Mahayuti ticket from the Indapur constituency. However, he was defeated for the third time by Ajit Pawar’s NCP candidate Dattatraya Bharane. With the Mahayuti government securing a strong majority in the state under BJP’s leadership, questions are now being raised – is Harshvardhan Patil trying to rebuild ties with the ruling party?
