Pune: Former Congress MLA Ravindra Dhangekar to Join Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena

Pune, 10th March 2025: Former Congress MLA Ravindra Dhangekar is set to join Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena. Announcing his decision at a press conference in Pune, Dhangekar described leaving the Congress as an extremely difficult choice and confirmed that he has resigned from the party.

Speculation about Dhangekar’s exit had been circulating for days, and his announcement has now put an end to the rumors. Speaking at the press conference, he said, “I have been with the Congress for the past 10-12 years. My party colleagues have become like family. I contested both the Lok Sabha and Assembly elections last year, and throughout my journey, party workers and leaders stood by me. Their support gave me the strength to contest these elections. Though I lost, their efforts were invaluable. That is why this decision to leave is emotional and difficult for me.”

Explaining his move, Dhangekar stated that after discussions with his supporters and constituents, he realized that without power, it was challenging to resolve the issues of the people. “In a democracy, power is essential to serve the common people effectively. For the past few days, activists and citizens in my constituency have been discussing this. I met Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde two to three times, along with Minister Uday Samant. They encouraged me to join their party and work with them,” he said.

Dhangekar also praised Shinde’s leadership and his role in facilitating development work in his constituency during his tenure as an MLA. “When I was an MLA and Eknath Shinde was the Chief Minister, he helped get work done in my constituency. He is popular among the people, and that is why I have decided to join Shiv Sena. Soon, I will meet Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and formally announce my decision,” he added.

His move is expected to have a significant political impact, particularly in Pune, where he has a strong support base.