Milind Deora resigns from Congress, joins Eknath Shinde-led Sena today

PTC News Desk: Former Union Minister Milind Deora has tendered his resignation from the Congress party and is expected to join the Shiv Sena led by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde later today. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he stated, "I have tendered my resignation from the primary membership of Congress, ending my family's 55-year relationship with the party." Expressing gratitude to leaders, colleagues, and supporters for their unwavering support, Deora signaled a significant shift in his political allegiance.

Milind Deora, the son of Congress veteran Murli Deora, had secured victory in the Mumbai South seat in 2004 and 2009. However, in the subsequent elections in 2014 and 2019, he emerged as the first runner-up against Shiv Sena (undivided) leader Arvind Sawant. Deora recently expressed dissatisfaction with the Uddhav Thackeray faction winning the Mumbai South seat, highlighting his party's strained relationship with the Uddhav Thackeray-led group, Shiv Sena (UBT), which is part of the opposition alliance.

In a video statement released last Sunday, Deora addressed concerns about alliance dynamics, stating that if statements from an "alliance partner" persist, his party may announce candidates for seats. Following discussions with his supporters, Deora decided to part ways with the Congress.

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In response to Milind Deora's departure, a Congress general secretary reminisced about his father, Murli Deora, emphasizing how the late leader had friends across political parties but remained a steadfast Congressman. The exit marks a notable shift in political alliances and underscores the evolving dynamics within Maharashtra's political landscape.

(Inputs from agencies)

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