Thane: Dipesh Mhatre Joins Uddhav Sena Ahead of Maharashtra Assembly Polls

Thane, 7th October 2024: In anticipation of the upcoming Maharashtra assembly elections, Shiv Sena leader Dipesh Pundlik Mhatre, former chairman of the Kalyan Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC) standing committee, has shifted allegiance to the Shiv Sena (UBT) faction led by Uddhav Thackeray.

Mhatre, a former corporator and Yuva Sena office-bearer left the faction led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and joined the Shiv Sena (UBT) along with his supporters on Sunday in the presence of former Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray.

Alongside Mhatre, six former KDMC corporators also joined the Thackeray-led party. The areas of Kalyan and Dombivli fall within Thane district, the political stronghold of CM Shinde.

Welcoming the new members at an event held at his residence ‘Matoshree’ in Mumbai, Uddhav Thackeray stated, “Today is a significant day in the history of Shiv Sena. Together, we will amplify the voice of the residents of Dombivli.” He added, “Maharashtra needs young and dynamic leaders who can bring fresh ideas and innovative solutions to the challenges faced by the state. The spirit of Maharashtra has always thrived on the strength of its young minds.”

Thackeray emphasized that the city requires leaders who are both visionary and action-oriented, ready to address issues such as education, employment, and sustainable development. “It is time for the youth to step forward and play their part in shaping the future of Maharashtra,” he remarked.

On this occasion, Dipesh Mhatre expressed that it was an honour for him and his supporters to work under the leadership of Uddhav Thackeray. “We believe in the ideology of Thackeray’s Shiv Sena and are committed to working proactively. I assure you that I will restore the pride of Dombivli,” Mhatre added.

The elections for the 288-member Maharashtra state assembly are expected to take place next month.

In June 2022, Eknath Shinde and several MLAs rebelled against the Shiv Sena leadership, resulting in a split within the party and the collapse of the Thackeray-led government. Shinde subsequently allied with the BJP to establish a new government.