The Congress party announced Wednesday that it has initiated disciplinary action against former MP Sanjay Nirupam for his comments against the party leadership during seat-sharing negotiations with ally Shiv Sena (UBT). A decision regarding Nirupam’s status within the party is expected within a day or two.
Maharashtra Congress president Nana Patole informed reporters in Mumbai after attending a campaign committee meeting that Nirupam’s name has been removed from the list of star campaigners.
Despite the disciplinary action, Nirupam remained defiant, stating that he would reveal his stance on Thursday. In a tweet, he urged the Congress not to waste resources amidst its financial crisis and pledged to announce his next steps the following day.
“It should utilise the stationery and energy to save itself, as the party is experiencing a serious financial crisis. The time frame I had given to the party ends today. I will spell out my next course of action tomorrow,” he tweeted.
Patole reiterated that disciplinary proceedings have been initiated against Nirupam for his criticisms against the party and state leadership. He indicated that a final decision would be made soon.
Nirupam, a former MP from Mumbai North, had criticized the Congress leadership following Shiv Sena (UBT)’s decision to field candidates in four out of six Lok Sabha seats in Mumbai, including the Mumbai North West seat that Nirupam had set his sights on. He accused the Congress leadership of capitulating to Shiv Sena (UBT)’s demands, which he believed would lead to the downfall of the Congress.
Regarding disputes among Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) allies over seat-sharing, Patole said that a meeting would be held later in the day to resolve the matter. He added that the Congress aims to contest constituencies based on the merits of individual candidates.
Meanwhile, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray rejected Congress leaders’ calls for “friendly fights” in disputed constituencies, asserting that they must either collaborate or compete. Patole responded by expressing confidence that the MVA would address the issue during their meeting.
Patole also announced plans for a door-to-door campaign ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.