In a shocking political development, Former Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) Mumbai chief, Sachin Ahir joined the Shiv Sena today and left the opposition in a state of shock by switching the sides just months prior to the Assembly election in Maharashtra.
The former NCP leader joined Shiv Sena in the presence of Sena leader Uddhav Thackeray and his son Aaditya Thackeray.
In politics, tough decisions have to be taken," the 47-year-old politician told reporters.
It is expected that the move to bring Ahir on board is to strengthen Shiv Sena's prevalence in an area like Worli in Mumbai, where it has a strong cadre base. However, the Sena workers might have a tough time accepting him as one of them since he has been seen as a rival for decades.
According to media reports, other senior NCP leaders are also in talks with Shiv Sena leaders. Among them is Chhagan Bhujbal, who was in the Sena for 25 years, but later joined Sharad Pawar when he formed the NCP.
Bhujbal was part of the decision to arrest Sena supremo Balasaheb Thackeray, which remains a major thorn for hardcore 'Sainiks' who oppose his return. Therefore, numerous senior Shiv Sena leaders have reportedly been against Bhujbal's return to the party.