Before Ashok Chavan's anticipated move to the BJP, his long-standing adversary, Pratap Patil Chiklikar, issued a cautious warning.

With Ashok Chavan all set to join the BJP, Nanded MP Pratap Patil Chiklikar will be facing his arch-rival.

Before Ashok Chavan's anticipated move to the BJP, Pratap Patil Chiklikar, the Nanded MP from the BJP and long-time rival of Chavan, issued a word of caution. Chiklikar, who has opposed Chavan's political endeavors in Nanded, emphasized the challenges that Chavan's entry into the BJP poses. He underscored the importance of discipline within the party, hinting at Chavan's reputed assertiveness. Having defeated Chavan in the 2019 Lok Sabha election, Chiklikar's political ascent reached a pinnacle. However, with Chavan's imminent BJP affiliation, they find themselves on the same side, marking a significant shift. Chiklikar criticized Chavan for the mismanagement of the Bhaurao Chavan Cooperative Sugar Mill in Nanded, highlighting grievances from local farmers regarding delayed cane harvesting and external cane procurement at lower prices, resulting in the mill's substantial debt despite its considerable value.For Chiklikar and others like him whose political career has been based on opposition to Chavan and his control in Nanded, the new political equations can hardly be comfortable.

“Chavan’s role in the party would be decided by party leaders like Devendra Fadnavis and others. As a disciplined party soldier, I will adhere to whatever role they give him,” he said.