In a significant development ahead of the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections, Indian Revenue Services (IRS) officer Sameer Wankhede is set to join the Shiv Sena faction led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Sources reveal that the formalities for his entry into the party are nearing completion, and Wankhede will officially join the Shinde-led Shiv Sena in the next two days.
Sameer Wankhede, who previously served as the zonal director of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), is likely to contest from Mumbai’s highly contested Dharavi constituency, one of the state’s most important electoral battlegrounds. Wankhede’s entry into politics adds a notable twist to the Dharavi seat race, which has long been a stronghold of various political forces.
From NCB Officer to Political Contender
Sameer Wankhede gained widespread attention during his tenure with the NCB, particularly in 2022 when he spearheaded the controversial raid on the Cordelia cruise ship. This operation led to the arrest of Aryan Khan, the son of Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, on drug-related charges. Although the charges against Aryan Khan were later dropped, and Wankhede faced accusations of blackmail, his strong image as a no-nonsense officer persisted.
The high-profile nature of the case thrust Wankhede into the national spotlight, garnering him both praise and criticism. Following the case, Wankhede was transferred and is currently posted in Chennai, but his reputation as a strict enforcer of the law remains intact.
A Shift in Political Ambitions
This move comes after reports surfaced during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections that Wankhede was considering joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and contesting from the Wardha constituency in Maharashtra’s Vidarbha region, his native place. However, his decision to align with the Shinde faction of Shiv Sena signals a shift in his political aspirations.
Dharavi, known for its dense population and economic significance, has long been a political hotspot. Winning this seat is seen as both a challenge and an opportunity for the Shinde-led Shiv Sena, especially with Wankhede’s candidacy expected to add a new dynamic to the electoral contest.
A Strategic Move for Shiv Sena
For the Shinde Sena, Wankhede’s entry into the party is a strategic move aimed at enhancing its appeal in key constituencies like Dharavi. With his reputation for integrity and strong enforcement of the law, Wankhede’s candidacy could attract a segment of voters who prioritize discipline and law and order.
The upcoming elections in Maharashtra are expected to be a tightly contested battle, with all political factions preparing their strategies to secure pivotal seats. Wankhede’s move into the political arena will likely be one to watch, particularly in a constituency as politically charged as Dharavi.
