Ex-MP Sanjay Nirupam criticizes Congress for ‘complete surrender’ to Shiv Sena (UBT); hints at rebellion

In a shocking turn of events, veteran Congress leader Sanjay Nirupam has criticized his own party leadership for surrendering to ally Shiv Sena in the seat distribution for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The 59-year-old leader expressed his displeasure after the Shiv Sena announced its list of 16 candidates, including Mumbai North West, a seat he had hoped for.

The Shiv Sena has nominated Amol G. Kirtikar, who is reportedly involved in the ‘khichdi scam,’ as its candidate for Mumbai North West, causing surprise to Congress and NCP, the other allies in the Maha Vikas Aghadi. Nirupam openly condemned the decision, calling Kirtikar a ‘khichdi chor’ and questioning the Congress’s silence on the tainted nominee.

Accusing the Congress leadership of neglecting party activists and failing to stand up for them, Nirupam hinted at taking a decisive step in response to the party’s inaction. He also criticized Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray for challenging Congress by fielding Kirtikar and suggested a hidden agenda to eliminate Congress in Maharashtra.

While Nirupam’s revolt has created ripples within the party, other senior leaders like Balasaheb Thorat have also expressed disapproval at Shiv Sena’s premature candidate announcements. The NCP has similarly raised concerns over the list of candidates released by Shiv Sena before completing the seat-sharing talks.

The issue has now reached the central party leadership in Delhi, indicating a growing rift within the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance. As tensions rise, Nirupam remains firm on his stance, signaling that all options are open for him in the coming days. The fate of the alliance and the upcoming elections hang in the balance as the political drama unfolds in Maharashtra.