Former Congress functionary Sahebrao Kamble, who was expelled by the party a few days ago, officially joined the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) along with many supporters. Kamble was welcomed into the Sena fold by Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde at his official residence, Nandanvan, in Mumbai.
Background of Sahebrao Kamble
Kamble, a former Congress candidate from the Umarkhed Assembly constituency, has been a prominent face of the Congress party in Yavatmal district. On the last day of filing nominations for the Yavatmal Legislative Council election, Kamble unexpectedly withdrew his candidature. This action resulted in the Congress party expelling him from its ranks.
Massive Support for Kamble
According to sources, several key Congress office-bearers and grassroots workers also switched allegiance and joined the Shiv Sena along with Kamble. This mass defection underscores the shifting political landscape in the region.
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde expressed confidence that Kamble and his supporters would work together for the development of Yavatmal district and the strengthening of the party organization. Shinde emphasized that the addition of Kamble and his followers would enhance the Shiv Sena's presence in the area.
Political Implications
Political observers believe that Kamble's entry is likely to boost the strength of the Mahayuti alliance in the district. With political equations in Yavatmal already undergoing rapid changes, Kamble's departure from the Congress is being viewed as a major setback for the party and the Mahavikas Aghadi alliance. The move is expected to consolidate the ruling coalition's position in the region.
This development comes amid ongoing realignments in Maharashtra politics, where several leaders have crossed party lines ahead of upcoming elections. Kamble's switch is seen as a significant gain for the Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction.
