Milind Deora Joins Shiv Sena Amidst Political Turmoil

In a dramatic turn of events, former Congress leader Milind Deora has officially resigned from the primary membership of the Congress, marking the end of a 55-year relationship between his family and the party. The political maverick has announced his entry into the Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena.

Background:

Milind Deora, a former Union minister, and two-time Lok Sabha election runner-up against Shiv Sena’s Arvind Sawant, expressed dissatisfaction over the potential allocation of the Mumbai South seat to Shiv Sena in the Maha Vikas Aghadi seat-sharing formula. His discontent intensified, leading to his decision to part ways with the Congress.

In a social media post on X, Milind Deora stated, “Today marks the conclusion of a significant chapter in my political journey. I have tendered my resignation from the primary membership of the Congress, ending my family’s 55-year relationship with the party.”

Shiv Sena Beckons:

Milind Deora is set to join the ranks of the Shiv Sena, with the official announcement scheduled for Sunday afternoon. Speculation had been rife about his potential move in recent days, with political circles buzzing with anticipation. Despite dismissing rumors on Saturday, Deora’s swift decision to resign has confirmed the ongoing political reshuffling.

Shiv Sena’s Claim to Mumbai South:

The Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena had asserted its right to contest the Mumbai South constituency, a seat formerly represented by Milind Deora. This move, part of the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance, fueled tensions within the Congress party. In response, Deora had issued a video statement, suggesting that if such statements by alliance partners persisted, the Congress might announce its own candidates for seats.

Political Ramifications:

The political landscape in Maharashtra undergoes a seismic shift as Milind Deora, a prominent face in Mumbai politics, aligns with the Shiv Sena. This move comes at a crucial juncture, with the upcoming Lok Sabha elections on the horizon. Deora’s departure from the Congress has drawn sharp criticism from the party, accusing him of orchestrating the timing in collaboration with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Congress Responds:

Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh alleged that the timing of Deora’s departure was strategically coordinated with Prime Minister Modi. Ramesh disclosed that Deora had expressed concerns about the Shiv Sena’s claim to the Mumbai South seat and had requested a meeting with Rahul Gandhi. However, Ramesh claimed that Deora’s intentions were dubious, and his decision to leave was premeditated.

As political tensions escalate, Maharashtra witnesses a significant realignment of political forces. The repercussions of Milind Deora’s move are expected to reverberate through the state’s political landscape.