By | Nisar Shaikh
Ratnagiri, Maharashtra: In a significant political development during the Ganeshotsav festivities, senior Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) leader Vaibhav Khedekar, widely regarded as the party’s face in Konkan, is all set to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on September 4. Khedekar, a loyal MNS worker for nearly 30 years and instrumental in expanding the party’s base in local self-governing bodies, was recently expelled from the MNS, signaling a major realignment in Konkan politics.
On September 4, Vaibhav Khedekar will formally join the BJP at the Mumbai BJP state office in the presence of State President Ravindra Chavan and other senior leaders. Earlier today, State Minister Nitesh Rane visited Khedekar’s residence in Khed to the darshan of Ganesha and later announced Khedekar’s induction into the BJP at a press conference.
Speculation about Khedekar’s political shift had been rife for the past two years, with whispers of possible moves to the NCP, Shiv Sena, or BJP. His growing distance from MNS leadership reached its peak last month when the party suspended him, paving the way for his formal exit. Minister Nitesh Rane had hinted at this major political entry under the “100% Konkan Mission,” which aims to strengthen the BJP in the region ahead of the upcoming local body elections.
Speaking to the media after his suspension, Khedekar expressed disappointment over the MNS leadership’s attitude, stating that he was sidelined despite his contributions to the party. He revealed that he had worked in close coordination with BJP leaders in previous elections and even sought Minister Rane’s help for urgent local issues, which the BJP promptly addressed. The MNS leadership, however, reportedly misinterpreted his growing proximity to BJP leaders, leading to his suspension without any inquiry.
Khedekar enjoys significant influence in Ratnagiri district and Khed taluka, particularly with local body elections around the corner. Political observers believe his entry into the BJP will not only consolidate the party’s presence in Konkan but may also dent MNS’s grassroots network in the region. Minister Nitesh Rane assured full respect and responsibility for Khedekar in the BJP, indicating that his inclusion is part of a larger strategy for the party’s expansion in coastal Maharashtra.
