Prajakt Tanpure, a former minister affiliated with the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), is reportedly set to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) by May 30, 2024. This move is seen as a significant setback for the NCP, particularly after Tanpure's recent decision not to contest the Rahuri by-poll, which facilitated an easy victory for the BJP. Insiders suggest that Tanpure, who has considerable influence in the Ahmednagar district and controls the Rahuri Municipal Council, is being considered for a candidacy in the legislative council as a reward for his earlier political sacrifices. Despite efforts by senior NCP leaders, including Jayant Patil, to retain him within the party, Tanpure appears resolute in his decision. Meanwhile, NCP state president Shashikant Shinde has denied knowledge of Tanpure's impending switch, emphasizing the need for further discussions. Ram Shinde, a senior BJP leader, confirmed that while there is no official decision regarding Tanpure's candidacy, his past support for the BJP candidate during the Rahuri by-poll indicates a potential alignment.