Sanjay Nirupam Expelled from Congress, Possibly Joining Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena: Report
The Congress party took decisive action on Wednesday, announcing the expulsion of Sanjay Nirupam, the former chief of its Mumbai unit, for a significant period of six years. This move followed Sanjay Nirupam’s issuance of a “one-week ultimatum” to the party regarding the Mumbai North-West seat, indicating a growing rift within the party ranks.
Reports from the Indian Express suggest that Sanjay Nirupam is poised to join the Shiv Sena, led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Sources familiar with Nirupam’s intentions revealed that he has made the decision to part ways with the Congress and is eyeing a potential candidacy in Mumbai under the Shiv Sena banner.
Congress spokesperson Venugopal cited complaints of indiscipline and anti-party statements as the grounds for Nirupam’s expulsion, reflecting a broader internal turmoil within the party.
In response to the announcement, Nirupam took to social media, implying that he would soon make his own decision regarding his future political affiliations. He expressed a belief that the Shiv Sena’s decision to field candidates in Mumbai was strategically aimed at undermining the Congress party’s influence in the region.
The significance of these developments is underscored by Maharashtra’s substantial contribution to national politics, boasting 48 Lok Sabha seats. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP emerged victorious in 23 out of 25 contested seats, while the undivided Shiv Sena secured 18 seats. This underscores the importance of strategic alliances and political maneuvering, particularly in a state as politically influential as Maharashtra.
Nirupam’s potential defection to the Shiv Sena signifies a shift in political dynamics and may have far-reaching implications for both parties. For the Congress, it highlights ongoing challenges in managing internal dissent and maintaining party unity. Meanwhile, for the Shiv Sena, Nirupam’s potential entry could bolster its presence in Mumbai and strengthen its alliance with the ruling coalition in Maharashtra.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, these developments serve as a reminder of the fluid nature of Indian politics and the strategic calculations that drive political actors at both regional and national levels.
