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6d ago

Ex-Congress MLA Sangram Thopte Joins BJP, Faces Local Resistance

Thopte's defection to the BJP, driven by dissatisfaction with Congress and a bid for development, sparks dissent among grassroots BJP leaders in Bhor.

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Thopte, who had represented the Bhor constituency between 2009, 2024 and 2019, was defeated by Ajit Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party candidate Shankar Mandekar in the 2024 assembly polls. (HT)
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Overview

  • Sangram Thopte, a three-time MLA from Bhor and son of Congress veteran Anantrao Thopte, formally joined the BJP on April 22, 2025, in Mumbai.
  • Thopte cited neglect and lack of recognition from Congress leadership as key reasons for his defection after his 2024 electoral defeat to NCP's Shankar Mandekar.
  • Maharashtra BJP leaders Chandrashekhar Bawankule and Ravindra Chavan welcomed Thopte, signaling BJP's strategy to strengthen its rural base in Pune district.
  • Local BJP leaders, including Bhor assembly segment secretary Datta Jadhav, opposed Thopte's induction, citing long-standing rivalries and concerns over party unity.
  • Thopte's move reflects broader themes of political realignment, with promises of development and financial support under BJP leadership influencing his decision.