Ahead of the Maharashtra assembly elections, Shiv Sena leader Dipesh Pundlik Mhatre, former chairman of the Kalyan Dombivli Municipal Corporation's (KDMC) standing committee, has left Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena faction and joined the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT).
Mhatre, a former Yuva Sena office-bearer, along with six other former KDMC corporators, joined the Thackeray faction on Sunday, during a ceremony at Thackeray's residence, 'Matoshree,' in Mumbai.
Kalyan and Dombivli, part of Thane district, are key areas in CM Shinde's political stronghold.
Welcoming the new members, Thackeray called the day "an important milestone in the history of Shiv Sena," and emphasised the need for strong leadership in the region. "Maharashtra needs young, dynamic leaders who can bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to the challenges the state is facing," he said, stressing that the state has always thrived on youthful energy.
Thackeray added that the city requires visionary leaders who are action-oriented and ready to address issues concerning education, employment, and sustainable development. "It is time for the youth to step forward and take their rightful place in shaping the destiny of Maharashtra," he said.
Expressing pride in joining Thackeray’s faction, Mhatre pledged to work proactively under his leadership. "I believe in the ideology of Shiv Sena (UBT) and will work to regain the honour of Dombivli," he said.
Elections to the 288-member Maharashtra assembly are expected to be held next month. In June 2022, Shinde led a rebellion within the Shiv Sena, causing a split in the party and the collapse of Thackeray's government. Shinde later formed a government with the BJP.
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