Is Sharad Pawar's NCP Facing Setbacks with 7 Former Thane Corporators Joining Shinde Sena?
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Synopsis
In a surprising turn of events, the NCP led by Sharad Pawar has lost seven key corporators to the Shiv Sena, raising questions about its strength ahead of the upcoming local body elections. This move could significantly impact the political landscape in Thane, where the Shiv Sena aims to consolidate its power.
Key Takeaways
- Seven former corporators from NCP joined Shiv Sena.
- The move comes ahead of crucial local body elections.
- Shiv Sena aims to strengthen its influence in Thane.
- Former corporators include significant political figures.
- The party's commitment extends beyond election periods.
Mumbai, May 8 (NationPress) The NCP, led by Sharad Pawar, faced a significant setback on Thursday when seven ex-corporators from the Thane Municipal Corporation departed from the party to join the Shiv Sena, in the presence of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
This development comes at a critical time as the Supreme Court recently instructed the Maharashtra government to finalize local body elections within four months.
The Shinde-led Shiv Sena is a dominant force in the Thane Municipal Corporation area and aims to maintain its influence in the upcoming elections.
The former corporators who switched allegiance are from Kalwa, Kharegaon, and Vitawa, located in the Kalyan-Dombivli Lok Sabha constituency represented by Shinde’s son, Shrikant Shinde.
This transition poses a significant challenge to NCP(SP) legislator Jitendra Awhad from the Kalwa-Mumbra Assembly constituency, a close associate of Sharad Pawar.
The individuals joining Shiv Sena include former Thane Municipal Corporation Opposition Leader Milind Patil, along with corporators Manali Patil, Mahesh Salvi, Manisha Salvi, Surekha Patil (who is also the working president of the Thane Mahila NCP – Sharad Pawar group), Sachin Mhatre, Pramila Keni, and youth leader Mandar Keni.
They officially became part of Shiv Sena by adopting the party’s saffron flag and its symbol — the bow and arrow.
Every day, hundreds of workers from various talukas within Thane district are joining Shiv Sena, showcasing a substantial wave of support in an area long considered the stronghold of Dharmaveer Anand Dighe.
Currently, there are 78 former corporators associated with the Thane Municipal Corporation who are aligned with Shiv Sena.
“Shiv Sena does not function solely during elections. Our commitment is unwavering: we work 365 days a year. This dedication has encouraged leaders and workers from other parties to trust Eknath Shinde’s leadership and join our movement,” the party expressed.
Point of View
The recent defections from the NCP to the Shiv Sena highlight the shifting dynamics within Maharashtra's political landscape. As local body elections loom, these maneuvers may reflect broader trends in voter sentiment and party loyalty, underscoring the need for established parties to adapt swiftly to retain their influence.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the former corporators to switch to Shiv Sena?
The shift appears to be influenced by the Shiv Sena's stronghold in the Thane Municipal Corporation and the desire for stability in the upcoming local body elections.
Who are the notable former corporators that joined Shiv Sena?
Notable figures include Milind Patil, the former Opposition Leader of Thane Municipal Corporation, along with several other key corporators.
What impact could this have on the NCP?
This departure may weaken the NCP's position in Thane and potentially impact its performance in the upcoming elections.
