Overview

• Ashok Chavan, a key figure in Maharashtra politics, has left the Congress to join the BJP, marking a significant shift in the state's political landscape.
• Chavan's departure from Congress, following the exits of other senior figures, poses a challenge to the party's plans for the Rajya Sabha elections and general elections.
• The Congress is at risk of losing its Rajya Sabha seat in Maharashtra, as it now holds only 42 MLAs, barely above the threshold needed to secure a seat.
• Chavan's move to the BJP is seen as a boost for the party, potentially allowing it to secure additional Rajya Sabha seats in Maharashtra.
• The political realignment comes months ahead of the state polls and the general election, adding to the challenges faced by the Congress and its allies in the Maha Vikas Aghadi.