Chhagan Bhujbal Meets CM Devendra Fadnavis Amid Cabinet Discontent; Sparks Speculation of Entry into BJP

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Chhagan Bhujbal, reportedly upset over being excluded from the cabinet led by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, is actively holding meetings with OBC community organizations and leaders. While Bhujbal has openly expressed his displeasure and criticized Ajit Pawar, he appears to be mobilizing support within his community.

In a significant development, Bhujbal, accompanied by Samir Bhujbal, met Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at the latter's official residence, Sagar Bungalow, on Friday. The meeting has sparked widespread political speculation, with sources suggesting that Bhujbal might consider joining the BJP to secure a ministerial berth.

The BJP currently has one ministerial position vacant in the state cabinet, and discontented MLAs from the ruling alliance are keenly observing developments. Bhujbal’s meeting with Fadnavis has further fueled rumors of his potential entry into the BJP.

Following the meeting, Bhujbal revealed that Fadnavis assured him a resolution within the next 10 to 12 days. “The Chief Minister has requested time to address the issue. He assured that the interests of the OBC community will not be compromised and that their grievances will be resolved amicably,” Bhujbal said, urging OBC leaders to remain calm during this period.

When asked about Bhujbal's meeting with Fadnavis, Ajit Pawar downplayed the matter, stating, “This is an internal party issue, and we will resolve it in our own way.”

Bhujbal’s dissatisfaction has been a subject of much speculation in recent weeks. Ajit Pawar, breaking his silence on the issue, emphasized that opportunities need to be distributed fairly within the party. “Some individuals have been asked to wait for cabinet positions, and others are being considered for central opportunities. Misunderstanding the situation and taking an adverse stance is not appropriate. I assure that no one will face injustice,” Pawar said.​