Nagpur: The reported rebellion by six MPs from the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena faction sparked a fierce political backlash on Wednesday, with Congress functionaries accusing the BJP of engineering defections and weakening democratic institutions for political gain.
Congress Leaders Condemn Defection
Maharashtra Congress president Harshwardhan Sapkal said the revolt was not merely a betrayal of Uddhav Thackeray's party but also a breach of trust with the opposition alliance under whose banner the MPs were elected in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
"Workers from Congress and allied parties campaigned for them despite pressure and intimidation. Their decision now is a betrayal of the public mandate," he said.
Sapkal alleged that voters supported the candidates against the ruling alliance and accused the rebel MPs of abandoning ideological commitments for power and money. "People who can be bought cannot genuinely serve the public. The voters will eventually hold such leaders accountable," he said.
Broader Attack on BJP
Sapkal also launched a broader attack on the BJP, alleging that democratic and constitutional principles were being systematically eroded. "Elections are increasingly turning into a spectacle driven by money power. If electoral victories are not secured, elected representatives are targeted and lured away," he said.
Congress legislative party leader Vijay Wadettiwar said democracy was not only about winning elections but also about respecting the trust reposed by voters. "Breaking opposition parties, encouraging defections and using institutions for political advantage has become method of functioning for the party in office," he alleged.
The Bramhapuri MLA said the rebel MPs sought votes on an anti-BJP platform during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, and their switch now amounted to "a betrayal of voters and political ideology".
"History will not forgive those who abandon public trust for power," Wadettiwar said, urging citizens to question whether their elected representatives remained loyal to voters or to political office.
Former Maharashtra Congress chief Nana Patole also condemned the split, accusing the BJP of "actively dismantling democracy and poaching opposition leaders".
Political Fallout Expected
The political fallout from the rebellion is expected to intensify tensions within the opposition bloc ahead of Thursday's local body MLC elections in Maharashtra.
Stay updated with the latest Nagpur news. Download the TOI App.
