Pune: Major Blow to Congress? Former Congress MLA Ravindra Dhangekar Likely To Join Shiv Sena (Shinde Faction)

Kasba Peth, 24th February 2025: Former Congress MLA Ravindra Dhangekar appears poised to join the Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction) after dropping strong hints on social media. His potential switch gained further traction after Shiv Sena leader and Industries Minister Uday Samant extended an open invitation for him to join the party. Responding to the proposal, Dhangekar stated that he would not conceal his political moves and would make a final decision after consulting the party members. If he joins Shiv Sena, it could deal a significant blow to the Congress in Pune.

Dhangekar made headlines in the Kasba Peth by-election two and a half years ago when he pulled off a stunning victory in the BJP stronghold, defeating MLA Hemant Rasane. However, his political trajectory has been turbulent since then. After contesting the Lok Sabha elections as a Congress candidate and losing to BJP’s Muralidhar Mohol, he suffered another defeat to Rasane in the Assembly elections held last October.

Speculation about Dhangekar’s departure from Congress had been rife in recent weeks, especially with the upcoming Municipal Elections. The rumors gained credibility after he was seen meeting Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. His latest social media post, which many interpreted as a signal of his impending move, further fueled discussions about his political future.

Despite his association with Congress, Dhangekar has often faced criticism from within the party for allegedly not adhering to its ideology. Party workers have accused him of aligning more with Shiv Sena’s stance and occasionally displaying an aggressive political style reminiscent of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS).

Clarifying his stance, Dhangekar addressed the controversy surrounding his social media post, stating, “The photo is from Shiv Jayanti celebrations. Wearing a saffron shawl is not wrong. I am proud of my religion. I receive a warm welcome everywhere, and Minister Uday Samant has proposed that I join the party. There is nothing wrong with such an offer. I will not hide my decisions, but the final call will be made after discussing with party members.”