Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena appears to be slowly expanding its space by supporting leaders who question the BJP, even as both remain part of the same government in Maharashtra. In that context, the inducting chief of the Prahar Janshakti Paksh, Bachchu Kadu, assumes significance.

A known rival of the Rana couple, Navneet Rana and Ravi Rana, in Amravati, both of whom are seen as close to the BJP, Kadu’s entry into the Shinde camp adds a new layer to the region’s political dynamic. His presence is likely to sharpen local rivalries while simultaneously boosting the Sena’s organisational strength in Vidarbha. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Shiv Sena are in alliance in Maharashtra under the Mahayuti coalition.