Congress Blow in Pune ? Disgruntled Leader Aba Bagul Holds Talks with Fadnavis in Nagpur

In a significant turn of events, Congress stalwart Aba Bagul was spotted engaging in discussions with BJP leaders in Nagpur, igniting speculation of a potential defection following his disappointment over being overlooked for a Lok Sabha nomination by the Congress party.

Aba Bagul, a prominent Congress figure and former deputy mayor, convened with Devendra Fadnavis, a key leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), alongside the party’s state unit president Chandrashekhar Bawankule in Nagpur on Monday. This rendezvous has since fueled conjecture regarding Bagul’s inclination towards the saffron party.

Insiders revealed that during the meeting, BJP brass extended assurances of a promising political trajectory should Bagul opt to switch allegiances. Although Bagul remained reticent on the matter, his companions corroborated the encounter.

Bagul’s disenchantment surfaced following the Congress party’s decision to deny him a Lok Sabha ticket, a setback he has been grappling with in recent weeks. His potential defection to the BJP could deal a blow to the Congress, especially to its Pune candidate Ravindra Dhangekar.

Recognized as a prominent figure in the Sahakarnagar and Parvati assembly constituencies, Bagul’s departure would signify a loss for the Congress in key areas.

Notably, Bagul had publicly aired his grievances when he was bypassed for a parliamentary ticket, leading a silent march to the Congress Bhavan. He expressed dismay over the party’s preference for candidates who had recently joined, citing Dhangekar’s swift ascension within the party ranks.

Highlighting his four-decade-long commitment to the Congress cause in Pune, Bagul lamented the party’s decision, emphasizing his loyalty and service over the years.

Within Pune’s political circles, Bagul has been closely associated with former MP and leader Suresh Kalmadi. Like his mentor, Bagul has been instrumental in organizing the popular Pune Navratri Mahotsav and initiating initiatives such as the free Kashi Yatra for senior citizens, endeavors that have earned him recognition and support.

Meanwhile, the local BJP unit has distanced itself from the developments in Nagpur, suggesting a degree of uncertainty surrounding Bagul’s potential crossover.