Sena (UBT) corporator Sarita Mhaske denies defection buzz

Her absence led to speculation she was among those being targeted by the Shinde-led Sena to poach to increase their strength.

Rejecting the speculation, Sarita Mhaske said she had not been in contact with the Shinde led Sena at any point, even though she was approached by some rival groups.

“I was not missing, nor was I negotiating with any other party. I had gone to Tuljapur to offer prayers after my election win. That was a vow I had taken before the polls,* she said after meeting Uddhav Thackeray at his residence..

She further alleged that leaders from the Shinde-led Shiv Sena had attempted to contact her during this period. “A senior leader from that side did try to get in touch with me, but I refused any such approach,” she said, adding that her brief absence was used to create a false narrative about her loyalty.