Milind Deora's Defection: A Shift in Loyalties and Political Dynamics

Milind Deora, who recently left the Congress to join Shiv Sena, expressed that his departure could have been avoided had the Congress leadership acknowledged his positive suggestions, merit, and capabilities. He accused his former party of engaging in what he termed "PAIN" politics - personal attacks, injustice, and negativity. Deora highlighted the transformation in the Congress, claiming that the current party is different from that of the past, emphasizing his family's long-standing association with the Congress.

Deora stated that he remained loyal to the Congress during its most challenging decade but criticized the party for focusing solely on opposing Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He contrasted his belief in the politics of "GAIN" - Growth, Aspiration, Inclusivity, and Nationalism - with the Congress's approach. Deora joined Shiv Sena in Mumbai's Varsha bungalow, the official residence of the Maharashtra chief minister.

The trigger for Deora's exit was reportedly Shiv Sena's insistence on contesting the South Mumbai seat in the Lok Sabha elections, a constituency Deora also aspired to represent. The undivided Shiv Sena's Arvind Sawant had defeated Deora in the 2014 and 2019 general elections. After the Sena's split in 2022, Sawant aligned with the Uddhav Thackeray faction, which is set to contest the 2024 general elections in alliance with the Congress.

Deora's departure drew varied responses from political figures. Former Congress MP Sandeep Dikshit suggested that fear and greed played a role in Deora's decision, while Congress leaders downplayed the significance of his exit. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh dismissed its impact, and Pawan Khera, Chairman of Congress' Media and Publicity Department, suggested that the BJP might be behind such exits. This marks the third major exit of young leaders from the Congress in the last five years, following Jitin Prasad and Jyotiraditya Scindia.