Mumbai, June 30 (IANS) UBT rebel legislator Sachin Ahir, after switching loyalty to the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena and filing a nomination for the Maharashtra Legislative Council’s Deputy Chairperson’s post, on Tuesday expressed his gratitude to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. He launched a scathing attack on the Thackeray faction, expressing disappointment over how departing leaders are targeted.

Responding to the Thackeray faction labelling him “traitor” and “opportunist,” Ahir stated, “It is unfortunate that as long as we were together, we were seen as ‘good,’ but the moment we part ways, we are labelled ‘unworthy.’ I will respond to this criticism at the appropriate political forum.” Ahir, who was accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena chief leader Eknath Shinde, was speaking at the press conference.

Responding to Shiv Sena UBT MP Sanjay Raut’s allegation that he had joined the party for selfish interests, Ahir countered, “Was I not selfish when I joined their group earlier? If I wasn’t then, why am I now? I have always strived to fulfil the responsibilities entrusted to me by Uddhav and Aaditya Thackeray with full dedication.”

He reiterated that it is unfortunate that the moment one is no longer with them, one is labelled worthless, and questioned what one can say when those who have never even picked up a stone start lecturing others.

Ahir claimed he worked diligently during UBT to strengthen the party organisation in Pune district, which was assigned to him for organisational work. In addition, he said he tried his best during his tenure as a corporator, legislator, and minister.

When asked if his exit was triggered by internal resentment, Ahir raised eyebrows by stating, “I have not left any party. Being given the responsibility of the Deputy Chairperson is an honour for a grassroots worker like me, and I will continue my work keeping that dignity intact.”

Regarding his future political moves, particularly concerning his traditional bastion of Worli, Ahir remained non-committal. “I will carry out whatever responsibility Eknath Shinde assigns to me with full strength,” he declared.

Earlier, in his letter to Uddhav Thackeray, Ahir, who defected and shifted his loyalty to Shiv Sena chief Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, cited “unavoidable circumstances” for his sudden departure.

“I am writing to respectfully inform you that I, Sachin Ahir, am currently serving as the General Secretary of the Bharatiya Kamgar Sena and the President of the Brihanmumbai BEST Kamgar Sena. I am deeply grateful to you and the party for the trust you reposed in me and for providing me the opportunity to work in these capacities. However, due to certain unavoidable circumstances, I am resigning from my posts in the Bharatiya Kamgar Sena and the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) party,” said Ahir.

He further added, “I humbly request you to accept my resignation. I pray that the trust and affection you have always shown toward me remain unchanged. My best wishes will always be there for the bright future of the party.”

–IANS

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