Maharashtra Politics: NCP Leader Bharat Gogawale Skips Sunil Tatkare’s Luncheon With Amit Shah

Amid ongoing political differences within the Mahayuti alliance over the appointment of guardian ministers for the Raigad and Nashik districts, Shiv Sena minister Bharat Gogawale skipped a luncheon hosted by NCP MP Sunil Tatkare at his Raigad residence. The event was attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, both Deputy Chief Ministers, and Uday Samant were also invited to the luncheon.

Gogawale is reportedly interested in the post of Guardian Minister for Raigad. In January, Fadnavis had announced Aditi Tatkare’s name for the position. However, following objections from Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, the decision was withdrawn.

Tatkare stated that there were no political discussions during Amit Shah’s visit. “The issue of guardian ministers was not on the agenda; the conversation remained family-oriented,” he said.

Tatkare also said it was his duty to invite all concerned, including Gogawale and Uday Samant, but noted that Gogawale did not attend. “I don’t know why he didn’t come,” Tatkare said.

Meanwhile, Shiv Sena spokesperson Sanjay Shirsat suggested that despite Shah’s lunch with Tatkare, Shiv Sena would ultimately secure the post of Guardian Minister for Raigad. The luncheon was also attended by state ministers Shivendrasinh Bhosale and Ashish Shelar and Union Minister Murlidhar Mohol.

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