In a significant political development, Datta Gorde, the deputy district president of Shiv Sena (UBT) for Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, has officially joined the local unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This move occurred on Monday, marking a notable shift in the region's political landscape.
Political Experience and Background
Datta Gorde brings considerable political experience to the BJP. He previously served as the president of the Paithan municipal council, a role that provided him with deep insights into local governance and public welfare issues. His decision to leave Shiv Sena (UBT) adds to the challenges faced by the Uddhav Thackeray-led party, especially with the upcoming Zilla Parishad (ZP) polls on the horizon.
Gorde's Statement and Resolve
Upon joining the BJP, Gorde expressed a firm commitment to work towards development, good governance, and public welfare. He emphasized his loyalty to the BJP's ideology, stating that his political experience would be valuable for strengthening the party's organizational structure in the future. "My political experience would benefit the party's organisational strengthening in the future," Gorde remarked, highlighting his intent to contribute actively to the BJP's growth in the area.
Political Loyalties and History
Datta Gorde is known for his frequent shifts in political loyalties, earning him a reputation as a turncoat. He is considered a close aide of BJP leader Raosaheb Danve, which may have influenced his latest move. Gorde's political journey includes unsuccessful attempts in the last two assembly elections from Paithan. In the previous election, he lost as a Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate, while in 2019, he faced defeat as an NCP candidate.
Before the 2019 assembly polls, Gorde was with the BJP but switched to the NCP after the Paithan seat was allocated to Shiv Sena in seat-sharing negotiations. Additionally, his wife was in the race for the Paithan municipal council president position in the last election but also faced defeat. This history underscores the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of local politics in the region.
Impact on Shiv Sena (UBT)
The defection of Datta Gorde to the BJP is a setback for Shiv Sena (UBT), as it loses a key local leader ahead of the Zilla Parishad polls. This move could potentially weaken the party's organizational strength and influence in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, making the upcoming elections more competitive. Political analysts are closely watching how this development will affect voter sentiment and party strategies in the area.
Overall, Gorde's switch highlights the ongoing realignments in Maharashtra's political scene, with parties vying for experienced leaders to bolster their ranks. As the ZP polls approach, such defections are likely to shape the electoral outcomes and future governance in the region.
