In a significant political development in Maharashtra, former minister Jagdish Gupta publicly announced his departure from the Shiv Sena led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Tuesday. The announcement, made during a press conference in Amravati, was fueled by deep-seated disillusionment with the party's internal dynamics and a prevailing 'VIP culture'.
A Stance Against Internal Functioning
Jagdish Gupta did not mince words while explaining his decision to sever ties with the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction). He expressed profound disappointment, stating that the party's internal functioning had left him disenchanted. Gupta criticized a widespread political norm where workers are expected to offer unquestioning loyalty to their leaders, a practice he observed had taken root within his own party.
"All political parties are the same," Gupta remarked pointedly. "Workers are expected to salute leaders without question. I have seen this culture here too, which is why I am leaving." His statement highlights a growing rift based on principles rather than mere political maneuvering.
Broken Promises and Personal Agendas
Delving into specifics, the former minister alleged that the party leadership often placed personal interests above the welfare of its dedicated workers. He revealed that assurances made to him were frequently altered post-discussions, leading to a breakdown of trust. Gupta confirmed that he has formally sent his resignation to Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena (Shinde) leader Eknath Shinde.
"I was promised certain things, but the assurances kept changing after the talks," Gupta disclosed, underscoring the unreliability he experienced. This sense of betrayal appears to be a central catalyst for his dramatic exit.
Future Plans: Supporting Independent Voices
Looking ahead, Jagdish Gupta outlined his intention to channel his efforts into supporting capable individuals who choose to contest elections independently. Drawing from his past experience of founding the Jan Kalyan organisation, he pledged to stand by workers who have been sidelined or denied justice within traditional party structures.
"I will help courageous workers who have been denied justice. My fight is against VIP culture in politics," he asserted. This move positions him as a potential mentor for independent candidates challenging established political norms, framing his resignation as the beginning of a new, principle-based struggle rather than a retreat from public life.
The resignation of a former minister is a notable event for the Shinde-led faction, potentially signaling underlying discontent among senior ranks. It brings the issue of internal democracy and worker treatment within political parties into sharp focus, especially in the volatile landscape of Maharashtra politics.
