In a significant political development in Maharashtra, senior leader Sachin Ahir was unanimously elected as the Deputy Chairman of the Maharashtra Legislative Council on Wednesday, just a day after joining the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena. The appointment has intensified the political battle between the ruling alliance and the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT).
Unopposed Election After Opposition Candidate Withdraws
Ahir’s election was made possible after Mahavikas Aghadi (MVA) nominee JM Abhyankar withdrew his nomination before the voting process. The withdrawal reportedly came following a request from Maharashtra Parliamentary Affairs Minister Chandrakant Patil, resulting in Ahir being elected without a contest. However, no official reason has been disclosed for the withdrawal.
From Congress to Shinde Sena: Ahir’s Political Journey
Sachin Ahir has had a long political career spanning multiple parties. He entered politics through the Congress before moving to the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). Later, he joined the undivided Shiv Sena under Uddhav Thackeray and was regarded as one of Aaditya Thackeray’s close political associates.
After the Shiv Sena split in 2022, Ahir remained with the Uddhav Thackeray faction and later became a Member of the Maharashtra Legislative Council. His decision to switch to the Shinde-led Shiv Sena has now become one of the most talked-about political developments in the state.
Security Increased Outside Residence
Following his decision to change political camps, police security was deployed outside Ahir’s residence on Wednesday. Several political leaders and supporters also visited him after his move, highlighting the significance of the development in Maharashtra’s political landscape.
Sanjay Raut Launches Sharp Attack
Reacting strongly to Ahir’s exit, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut questioned the former MLC’s political loyalty and accused him of prioritising personal ambition over commitment to the party.
“There is something called integrity in politics and personal life. He was very close to Aaditya Thackeray. But political hunger has grown so much that loyalty and integrity have no value left,” Raut said.
He also said the party must review whether certain leaders were given excessive importance despite eventually leaving the organisation.
“We need to identify the character of a person. Some get too much and it hurts loyal party workers,” he added.
Raut further criticised Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, claiming his political rise was possible only because of the opportunities given to him by the undivided Shiv Sena leadership.
“If Uddhav Thackeray had not given posts and power to Eknath Shinde, where would he be today?” Raut questioned.
Another Challenge for Shiv Sena (UBT)
Ahir’s move comes at a time when the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) is already facing political turbulence following the departure of six Members of Parliament to the rival Shinde faction. Political observers believe Ahir’s defection and immediate elevation to the Deputy Chairman’s post could strengthen the ruling camp while adding to the organisational challenges facing the opposition ahead of future elections in Maharashtra.
