Sachin Ahir Elected Deputy Chairman Of Maharashtra Legislative Council After Sena UBT Switch
Political switch followed by key legislative appointment.
A day after leaving the Shiv Sena (UBT) to join the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, senior leader Sachin Ahir was unanimously elected as the Deputy Chairman of the Maharashtra Legislative Council on Tuesday. His election came after the Opposition withdrew its candidate, allowing an uncontested poll in keeping with parliamentary convention. Ahir's defection is being viewed as a major political setback for the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction, particularly because of his close association with Aaditya Thackeray and his influence in Mumbai's Worli constituency.
The Shiv Sena (UBT) had initially nominated Jagannath Shinde for the Deputy Chairman's post. However, the ruling alliance appealed for an uncontested election, citing legislative tradition. Following the appeal, the Opposition withdrew its candidate, paving the way for Ahir's unanimous election. His appointment further strengthens the ruling Mahayuti alliance, which already enjoys a comfortable position in the Maharashtra Legislature and has witnessed several opposition leaders shifting allegiance in recent months.
Reacting strongly to Ahir's decision to switch sides, Shiv Sena (UBT) Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut questioned the leader's loyalty to the party. Raut said Ahir had received significant political opportunities from the Uddhav Thackeray-led outfit, including being made a Member of the Legislative Council and deputy leader of the party. He remarked that political ambition had overshadowed integrity and loyalty, while reiterating that Shiv Sena (UBT) legislators remain committed to the party despite recurring speculation over possible defections. Raut also maintained that the original Shiv Sena belongs to Uddhav Thackeray and not to the Eknath Shinde faction.
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Sachin Ahir's political career has spanned multiple parties over the years. He began with the Congress before moving to the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and later joining the undivided Shiv Sena. In 2022, he was elected to the Maharashtra Legislative Council, the same year Eknath Shinde led a rebellion within the Shiv Sena that resulted in the split of the party and the formation of a BJP-backed government in the state. Ahir's latest move marks another significant shift in his political journey and reflects the continuing realignment within Maharashtra politics.
Ahir's elevation to the post of Deputy Chairman comes at a time when the Shiv Sena (UBT) continues to grapple with organisational and legislative challenges following the party split. His departure is considered politically significant due to his long-standing association with Aaditya Thackeray and his role in strengthening the party's base in Mumbai. Political observers believe the latest development further consolidates the Shinde-led Shiv Sena's position within the ruling Mahayuti alliance, while presenting another challenge for the opposition as it prepares for future electoral contests in Maharashtra.
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