Archana Patil Chakurkar, daughter-in-law of former Union Home Minister and Congress leader Shivraj Patil, officially joined the BJP in Maharashtra. The event took place in Mumbai and was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis along with other party leaders.

Speaking at a press conference, Devendra Fadnavis expressed confidence that Archana Patil Chakurkar's inclusion would bolster the BJP's presence in Maharashtra ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.

Fadnavis expressed satisfaction over Archana Patil Chakurkar's decision to join the BJP, noting her familial ties to Shivraj Patil, a prominent figure in the Congress party who served as Speaker of the Lok Sabha and held the position of Union Home Minister. He emphasised the significance of her joining, stating that it would enhance the party's strength.

Chakurkar visited Fadnavis at his official residence, where they discussed her decision to join the BJP. She currently holds the position of chairperson at Lifecare Hospital and Research Centre in Udgir, while her husband, Shailesh Patil Chandurkar, serves as the state secretary of the Congress party.

Her father-in-law, Shivraj Patil, presided as the Lok Sabha Speaker from July 10, 1991, to May 22, 1996. Additionally, he served as the Union Home Minister in the UPA government under former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh from 2004 to 2008.

Notably, Patil was in office as the Union Home Minister during the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, resulting in the loss of at least 192 lives. He tendered his resignation from the post on November 30, 2008, following extensive criticism in the aftermath of the attacks.

In February this year, Basavraj Patil, former working president of the state Congress and ex-MLA, made the switch to the BJP.

Maharashtra comprises 48 Lok Sabha constituencies, slated to participate in voting across five phases, commencing on April 19.

Image source: India Today