The former Bandra corporator Vilas Chavari switched sides to join the Eknath Shinde-led Sena on Tuesday. This is set to bolster the strength of Shinde's leadership within the BMC.
To date, 35 former corporators have chosen to join Shinde's faction.This development is perceived as a setback for Uddhav Thackeray. Chavari, who previously represented ward number 99, secured election victories in both 2007 and 2012. He also made a bid for a state assembly seat in 2014, although he was unsuccessful. In addition, he held the role of chief coordinator for Raigad district.
Shinde extended his congratulations to Chavari upon his decision to join the Shiv Sena. Chavari explained his choice, stating, "I had fulfilled all the responsibilities assigned to me by Uddhav Thackeray. However, in recent years, I found myself lacking support from him. Conversely, I am impressed with CM Shinde's work. I have decided to align with Eknath Shinde to support someone who is advancing the ideals of the late Shivsena Supremo, Bal Thackeray."
