Political Truce Broken as BJP Recruits Sena Leaders
In a significant political development that has strained the alliance between BJP and Shiv Sena, the Bharatiya Janata Party has recruited three prominent Shiv Sena functionaries despite an existing no-poaching agreement between the two parties. This move comes amid ongoing protests by Shiv Sena against BJP's recruitment of its members ahead of crucial local body elections.
Key Defections Across Maharashtra Districts
The political defections occurred on Monday across two important districts in Maharashtra. In Ambernath, Roopsingh Dhal, who served as Shiv Sena vibhag pramukh and is recognized as a veteran party member, formally joined the BJP. Dhal, a well-known businessman and former president of the Jewellers Association, switched sides in a ceremony presided over by Maharashtra BJP president Ravindra Chavan.
Simultaneously, in Sambhajinagar district, two significant Sena representatives changed their political allegiance. Ananda Dhoke, who was Shiv Sena's presidential candidate for Phulambri nagar panchayat, crossed over to BJP along with Shilparani Wadkar, the women's wing head of Shiv Sena in Sambhajinagar.
Sharp Political Reactions and Warnings
The recruitment drive triggered immediate and strong reactions from Shiv Sena leadership. Sanjay Shirsat, Sena cabinet minister and Sambhajinagar district guardian minister, issued a stern warning to BJP. "BJP has to face consequences if it does not stop poaching our netas. We will take appropriate measures to retaliate," Shirsat declared, indicating escalating tensions within the political alliance.
In response to the growing controversy, BJP minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule addressed the situation on Tuesday, attempting to downplay the significance of these developments. He stated that all differences within the Mahayuti alliance during the election campaign would be resolved after the election results are announced on December 3.
The political maneuvering occurs against the backdrop of Shiv Sena's ongoing protests against BJP's recruitment of its functionaries ahead of local body polls. Despite the no-poaching pact agreed upon by both parties, these latest defections have exposed the fragile nature of their political understanding and set the stage for potential confrontation in the coming days.
