At an event in Mumbai, Kadu formally joined Shiv Sena and outlined his future political course. He stated that while Prahar Sanghatana would continue to operate as an independent social organisation, its political engagement would now align with Shiv Sena. 

According to Kadu, the move is aimed at strengthening advocacy for farmers, labourers, persons with disabilities, and other marginalised groups.

Kadu has built his political identity through sustained agitation on issues such as farm loan waivers and welfare measures for disadvantaged communities. His protests have, at times, drawn attention from the state government and influenced policy decisions.

Speaking at the event, Shinde underlined the ideological compatibility between Kadu’s activism and the party’s stated commitment to addressing public grievances. He emphasised that empowering grassroots leaders within formal political structures could help translate social demands into policy decisions more effectively.

The timing of the announcement, just two hours before the nomination deadline, added an element of surprise. Observers noted that the delay in revealing the second candidate reflected a calculated political strategy, reinforcing Shinde’s reputation for making last-minute but decisive moves.