Chhagan Bhujbal to address NCP Pune rally

Mumbai: After being released on bail in the disproportionate assets case, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Chhagan Bhujbal is likely to make his first speech at a party function on Sunday. He will address the party’s Halla Bol Yatra in Pune. For now, all eyes are peeled on the OBC strongman.

The NCP is reaching out to people from all corners with its Halla Bol Yatra. On Sunday, June 10, the party has planned a huge rally in Pune to mark the end of the Yatra’s western Maharashtra leg. How-ever, the real showstopper for the party on its 20th foundation day will be its leader Mr Bhujbal.

Mr Bhujbal got bail after nearly two years in jail for a number of cases. His nephew and former NCP MP, Sameer Bhujbal, too, has got bail. Both have been asked to seek permission before crossing city limits. It is expected that Chhagan Bhujbal will join the party’s Pune rally, which will be his first political activity after getting bail.

There have been reports of Chhagan  Bhujbal being disturbed over the lack of party support during his time in prison. Also, he sent his son, Pankaj Bhujbal, to Matoshree, Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray’s residence, to thank the latter for his support. Chhagan Bhujbal has also publicly expressed gratitude towards Mr Thackeray for supporting him during difficult times. Against this backdrop, there has been speculation about Chhagan Bhujbal leaving the NCP once he is out of jail, which would be rest by his appearance at the rally.

“Coming out of jail after two years and re-starting political activities is a tough. His speech will indicate not just his future direction but also his vigour,” said political observer Prakash Bal.