Sharad Pawar, the President of National Congress Party (NCP) possibly suffers a setback after Avadhut Tatkare, MLA of the NCP has recently had a meeting with Uddhav Thackeray, the President of the Shiv Sena. Avadhut Tatkare who represents the Shrivardhan assembly seat in the Raigad district of Maharashtra has been rumoured to join the Shiv Sena. The party is an ally of the ruling party BJP in the state and the centre. Tatkare's uncle and NCP MP Sunil Tatkare is also rumoured to be joining the Shiv Sena, although he had refuted the rumours when questioned. 

NCP MLA Tatkare's intentions to remain in the mainstream politics

Avadhut Tatkare when questioned about leaving Sharad Pawar's NCP, was hesitant in responding. However, he stated that he intends to remain in mainstream politics and would only confirm things further once they have been decided. Tatkare stated that it is too soon to comment and that he would be able to make an official statement once the decision is made. He added that he intends to speak to his party members and close aides before making the decision.

'I met Uddhav Thackeray to remain in mainstream politics. I will announce my official decision in next two days.' sic 

READ: Maharashtra Poster War: Shiv Sena Poster Claiming Next CM From Its Party Put Up In Nasik Despite Fadnavis-Thackeray Understanding

Trouble mounts for Sharad Pawar?

Earlier, in a huge blow to Sharad Pawar, Sachin Ahir, one of the senior leaders of NCP joined Shiv Sena in July. Ahir stated that he wanted to fulfil the late Bal Thackeray's dream. He commented on how he would like to work with Uddhav Thackeray and his son, Aaditya Thackeray, to further develop the state. According to party insiders, Aaditya was instrumental in getting Ahir to the party as they knew each other for a long time. 

READ: Sharad Pawar Accuses BJP Of Misusing Power, Says 'not Worried About Desertions From NCP'

'Ours is a common goal of development. The Shiv Sena is in power in most municipal corporations in the state. I can use the expertise I gained as a minister to develop cities. I wanted to be with the young leadership for development,' sic Ahir stated.

READ: Congress faces setback in Maharashtra, Nirmala Gavit quits party to join ruling Shiv Sena

Sachin Ahir, who had begun his political career as a trade union leader, was the face of NCP. He had joined Sharad Pawar when NCP was formed and was close to Pawar. The NCP which already had limited presence in the city suffered a huge loss post-Ahir's exit. Meanwhile, the Shiv Sena Party has been pushing Aaditya Thackeray for the post of Chief Minister in the upcoming elections.

READ: Setback For NCP: Party's Mumbai Chief Sachin Ahir Likely To Join Shiv Sena

(Inputs from PTI)