Shiv Sena UBT leader and MLC Sachin Ahir, who recently switched to the Eknath Shinde camp, has been elected unopposed as the Deputy Chairperson of the Maharashtra Legislative Council. This unanimous decision came after the opposition nominee, J M Abhyankar, withdrew his candidature, following established Upper House conventions. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and others extended their congratulations to Ahir on his new role.
Ahir’s election to this significant post follows his move to the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction, a transition that has dealt a blow to the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) camp. With Ahir’s background in various political spheres, including municipal coordination and legislative affairs, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde expressed confidence in his ability to enhance the Mahayuti coalition’s performance in the Upper House.
The decision by the opposition MVA to withdraw their candidate was seen as a move to uphold the dignity and collaborative spirit of the state legislature. Ahir’s initial election in July 2022 under the unified Shiv Sena’s symbol ensures a smooth transition without triggering anti-defection disqualification proceedings.
