Dhanorkar-Andhare open spatdeepens Chandrapur MVA rift

Chandrapur: A war of words between Congress MP Pratibha Dhanorkar and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sushma Andhare has brought simmering tensions within the MVA alliance in Chandrapur into the open, with both leaders trading pointed barbs over recent political developments in the municipal corporation.

The confrontation began on Sunday when Andhare, addressing a women's empowerment rally, warned Congress of political consequences in the next Lok Sabha elections. In a veiled attack, she said attempts to sideline Shiv Sena (UBT) in Chandrapur Municipal Corporation would invite retaliation. "Those who tried to block our path will find their own path blocked," she remarked, signalling a potential backlash at the polls.

Her statement comes against the backdrop of shifting equations in the civic body, where an unexpected alignment involving the BJP, Shiv Sena (UBT), and Independents enabled Sena (UBT) to secure key posts, including deputy mayor and standing committee chairperson. Andhare defended the move, stating that her party was compelled to alter its strategy after attempts at coordination within the Maha Vikas Aghadi failed, and to prevent alleged defections and horse-trading among corporators.

The remarks were apparently directed at Dhanorkar, who was reportedly opposed to allocating crucial positions to the UBT faction — an impasse that opened the door for BJP's tactical intervention.

Responding swiftly on Monday, Dhanorkar escalated the confrontation, questioning Andhare's credibility and accusing her of opportunistic politics. She said leaders who frequently shift positions for convenience cannot claim ideological commitment, alleging that Andhare's statements were designed more for attention than substance.

In a pointed counterattack, Dhanorkar challenged Andhare to clarify her party's role in past controversies, including alleged irregularities in the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai. She further advised introspection before levelling accusations and took a swipe by suggesting Andhare seek answers from her colleague Sanjay Raut.

Cautioning against overconfidence, Dhanorkar asserted that isolated political gains should not be mistaken for enduring public support. Reaffirming Congress's position, she maintained that the party continues to hold dominance in Chandrapur Municipal Corporation and warned that unwarranted attacks within the alliance would draw firm retaliation.