Ahead of Ashok Chavan’s BJP jump, a note of caution from long-time rival Pratap Patil Chiklikar

“Ours is a party of discipline. Chavan known for having his way should remember this,” said Chiklikar, who had defeated Chavan from Nanded in the 2019 Lok Sabha election. “I have already stated that Chavan is welcome in the BJP but he should know that he is joining a party that has a strong sense of discipline and command,” he said.

Chiklikar’s rise in the BJP and his subsequent win against Chavan in 2019 can surely be called the high point of his career. Now with Chavan all set to join the BJP, Chiklikar finds himself on the same side as his arch-rival.

Speaking about Nanded, Chiklikar said Bhaurao Chavan Cooperative Sugar Mill, the cooperative sugar mill in the district, is in a bad state due to mismanagement by Chavan.

Chavan and his supporters in Nanded have faced the ire of local farmers who have claimed that the sugar mill has delayed harvesting cane in the district but has preferred to get canes at a cheaper rate from outside the district.

“How come a mill which is valued at Rs 40 crore can have a debt of Rs 400 crore? ”he asked.

For Chiklikar and others like him whose political career has been based on opposition to Chavan and his control in Nanded, the new political equations can hardly be comfortable.

“Chavan’s role in the party would be decided by party leaders like Devendra Fadnavis and others. As a disciplined party soldier, I will adhere to whatever role they give him,” he said.