Kalyan: As the assembly elections approach, political realignments are intensifying, with significant developments in the local political landscape. Rakesh Mutha, the Vice President of the BJP Yuva Morcha, is set to rejoin the Congress Party after an eight-year hiatus. Mutha, who originally hailed from Congress but left due to internal disputes, announced his decision in a press conference on August 7.

Mutha will return to the Congress fold along with 600 to 700 supporters. This re-entry will be officially marked by a gathering in Mumbai on August 8, where state president Nana Patole will oversee the event. Mutha's decision to rejoin Congress comes after a period of dissatisfaction with his current party, the BJP, and his brief association with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).

In his press conference, Mutha criticized the BJP's internal dynamics and expressed frustration with the limited opportunities for workers. He emphasized that the return to Congress represents a return to his political roots and a chance to re-engage in meaningful political work. Additionally, he hinted at a significant exodus of disgruntled youth from the Jain Marwari community, who are also expected to join him in rejoining Congress.

Congress district president Sachin Pote confirmed that Mutha’s reentry is part of a broader trend of prominent BJP and other party office-bearers moving to Congress. Pote also mentioned that the party will push for key constituencies, specifically Kalyan East and Kalyan West, in the upcoming assembly elections as part of their strategy to strengthen their position in the Kalyan-Dombivli region.