Milind Deora Quits Congress Citing Displeasure with Alliance, To Join Eknath Shinde-Led Sena Today

Mumbai: Milind Deora, former Union Minister, has officially resigned from the Congress party and is expected to join the Shiv Sena under the leadership of Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde later today. Announcing his departure on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Deora expressed gratitude to party leaders, colleagues, and supporters for their unwavering support during his family’s 55-year association with the Congress.

Today marks the conclusion of a significant chapter in my political journey. I have tendered my resignation from the primary membership of @INCIndia, ending my family’s 55-year relationship with the party.

I am grateful to all leaders, colleagues & karyakartas for their…

— Milind Deora | मिलिंद देवरा ☮️ (@milinddeora) January 14, 2024

Son of Congress veteran Murli Deora, Milind Deora had previously secured victory in the Mumbai South seat in 2004 and 2009. However, he faced defeat in the 2014 and 2019 elections against Shiv Sena (undivided) leader Arvind Sawant. His recent dissatisfaction with the Uddhav Thackeray faction winning the Mumbai South seat, a part of the opposition alliance, prompted him to consider alternative political paths.

In a video statement last Sunday, Milind Deora warned against continued statements from alliance partners, suggesting that his party might also announce candidates for seats. Following discussions with his supporters, he decided to resign from the Congress party.

Responding to Deora’s departure, a Congress general secretary took a subtle dig, recalling the steadfast loyalty of Milind’s father, Murli Deora, to the Congress party despite having friends across political parties. The Uddhav Thackeray-led group, Shiv Sena (UBT), is now set to welcome Milind Deora into its fold.