Ex-Sena (UBT) MLA Rajan Salvi Likely to Join Shinde Camp

Speculations are rife once again that former Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Rajan Salvi, who represented Rajapur Assembly constituency for three terms, is reportedly considering switching allegiance to the Shiv Sena faction led by deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde.

- Yogesh Naik

MUMBAI:

While Salvi has yet to confirm the move, sources within both factions indicate that discussions are underway.

Political observers said that Uddhav Thackeray is making a last attempt to convince Salvi not to jump the ship, as his exit will dent the already hard-hit Sena (UBT) in the Konkan region.

Salvi, a veteran leader, faced a tough electoral battle in the recently held assembly elections, losing to Shiv Sena candidate Kiran Samant, the brother of Industries Minister Uday Samant.

His political challenges intensified following the 2022 split in Shiv Sena when he remained with the Uddhav-led faction instead of joining Shinde.