The Aryavarth Express
Agency(New Delhi): The Congress Party has announced the commencement of disciplinary action against Sanjay Nirupam, a former MP, due to his recent critical remarks targeting the party leadership. This development arises amidst the ongoing seat-sharing negotiations with the Shiv Sena (UBT). Maharashtra Congress President Nana Patole, after a party campaign committee meeting in Mumbai, disclosed that Nirupam’s name has been omitted from the roster of star campaigners, signifying the party’s disapproval of his comments.
Nirupam, known for his tenure as MP for Mumbai North, had publicly criticized the Congress state leadership following the Shiv Sena (UBT)’s candidate announcements for four out of six Lok Sabha seats in Mumbai. He expressed his discontent particularly about the Mumbai North West seat, which he has been eyeing, urging the Congress leadership not to succumb to Shiv Sena (UBT)’s pressures.
He argued that conceding to Shiv Sena (UBT)’s unilateral candidate announcements in Mumbai essentially equates to permitting the erosion of the Congress Party’s foundation in the city. This strong stance against the party’s strategic decisions prompted the initiation of disciplinary proceedings, with a resolution expected shortly.
Amidst these internal disagreements, Patole highlighted ongoing discussions to resolve seat-sharing disputes within the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance, with a meeting scheduled to address these contentions, particularly focusing on constituencies like Sangli, Bhiwandi, and certain areas in Mumbai. The Congress’s strategy revolves around fielding candidates based on their merit, as evidenced by a collaboration with the NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) in Wardha, where a Congressman was roped in due to a lack of suitable candidates from Pawar’s camp.
Furthermore, in response to Uddhav Thackeray’s remarks dismissing the concept of “friendly fights” among alliance partners for disputed seats, Patole affirmed the MVA’s commitment to resolving these issues promptly. He also mentioned the Congress’s plan to embark on a door-to-door campaign for the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections, underscoring the party’s proactive approach to electioneering despite internal challenges.
This incident underscores the complexities of coalition politics and the challenges political parties face in balancing internal cohesion with strategic alliances, especially in the run-up to crucial electoral battles.
