Shiv Sena (UBT) MLC Neelam Gorhe joins Shinde Sena, says it is ‘on the right track’

“Shiv Sena led by Eknath Shinde along with National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is on the right track. I have decided to join the NDA and will work with Shinde and Devendra Fadnavis for the development of women, the state and the country,” Gorhe said.

Speaking on the occasion, CM Shinde said it was a historic moment and a testament to how strong the BJP-Shiv Sena unity is. “Everyone is seeing the work we do, and this is why our Sena is getting stronger and people keep joining. Neelam Gorhe will be able to work freely with all her heart for women. She is not defecting anywhere but is joining the original Sena,” the Maharashtra CM said.

Saying that she was indebted to Bal Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray for their constant support, Gorhe said in a statement that the Supreme Court and the Election Commission have given a clear verdict that the Shiv Sena faction under Shinde is official.

The NDA and the BJP, Gorhe said, had “taken positive steps” regarding the Ram temple in Ayodhya, justice for triple talaq victims, hoisting the tricolour flag in Kashmir etc.

“Along with the role of Hindutva i.e. nationalism, there is a need for strategic and practical work on the issue of women and children, underprivileged groups, tribals, unorganised workers and farmers. I support the stand of Shiv Sena and have decided to do work on these lines…,” she added.

“As I am holding the post of deputy speaker, I will do this while respecting the framework of that statutory post,” Gorhe said.

CM Shinde said Shiv Sena and the Mahayuti (grand alliance) are getting stronger by the day. “The people of the state wanted to see us come together; it was their wish. These 50 people did not come here with lust for power. On the contrary, we left when we were already in power. Did we know what was going to happen when we moved out? We have common ideological ground right from Balasaheb and Vajpayee’s days. Ministries come and go but the ideology should not be compromised. Our ideals and our stand will never be compromised. Even Supreme Court ruled in our favour,” he added.

Shinde reiterated that misunderstandings are being planted by the Opposition. “We expedited public welfare decisions, and they are there to see for everyone to witness. Some people float their own versions of the Supreme Court ruling, let them be happy. PM Modi is leading the nation to be a superpower; we believe we should have a role to play as a state. But the Opposition keeps spinning stories and rumours to break the unity. Uddhav Thackeray should introspect before levelling allegations,” he said.

Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said Sena and BJP follow the same thought process. “I personally wanted to remain present for the induction and welcome her into the alliance. She has taken a rational decision,” he said. On being asked whether or not the alliance is leaving any scope for the Opposition, Fadnavis said, “We believe there should be an able Opposition. But there should be constructive Opposition and not destructive Opposition.”

Gorhe switched sides on a day when Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut said that around 17-18 MLAs from the Eknath Shinde faction were in touch with them. “We are not saying that they are coming to us but since the past week, they have contacted us expressing their displeasure. Now also, four MLAs called me. Eighteen MLAs have contacted. It is not that they have joined us, the decision can only be taken by Uddhav Thackery,” Raut said.

Maharashtra Industries Minister Uday Samant dismissed Raut’s claims, saying that six to seven Shiv Sena (UBT) MLAs were in touch with him and wanted to switch sides.

“One should not take Sanjay Raut seriously. He and Vinayak Raut are specialists in spreading fake news and rumours. If any MLAs are in touch with you, reveal at least one name,” Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Shirsat said.