Former Maharashtra CM Ashok Chavan Quits Congress, Blames Internal Power Struggle

CM Ashok Chavan — In a shocking turn of events, former Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Ashok Chavan, has resigned from the Congress party. Chavan, a senior leader and a prominent figure in Maharashtra politics, cited internal power struggles as the primary reason for his decision.

 

Image Credit - The Indian Express

While some party members have expressed their disappointment, others see this as an opportunity for new growth within the Congress party.

Upset with Party Leadership

Senior Congress leader Sanjay Nirupam has shed light on Ashok Chavan's reasons for quitting the party. According to Nirupam, Chavan was upset with the working style of a party leader from Maharashtra. 

Despite conveying his concerns to the party leadership, Chavan's grievances were not addressed, leading to his hard-hitting decision. The absence of a resolution to his concerns left him with no choice but to part ways with the Congress.

A Loss for the Party

Nirupam emphasized that Chavan's departure is a significant loss for the Congress party. Chavan, known for his resourcefulness, organizational skills, and strong grassroots connection, was considered an asset to the party. 

His absence will undoubtedly be felt, and filling the void left by him will prove to be a challenging task for the party.

Blow to Congress Ahead of Lok Sabha Polls

Chavan's resignation comes at a particularly crucial time for the Congress party, with the upcoming Lok Sabha polls drawing near.

The departure of other senior Maharashtra Congress leaders, such as Baba Siddique and Milind Deora, has already weakened the party. Chavan's decision to join the rival Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) further amplifies the blow to the congress

Personal Decision, No Connection to Scandals

In response to his resignation, Chavan clarified that his decision to leave the Congress was a personal one, unrelated to any controversies or scandals that he may have been associated with in the past. 

He specifically dismissed any connection to the Adarsh Building scam, which led to his resignation as the Chief Minister in 2010. Chavan is determined not to attach any reasons to his departure, leaving room for speculation.

New Opportunities for Others

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh indirectly commented on Chavan's exit, referring to those who leave the party as "betrayers." 

Ramesh believes that their departure creates opportunities for others whose progress may have been hindered in the past. 

This shift in dynamics within the Congress party could potentially lead to a fresh wave of growth for those willing to seize the moment.

Unsurprising News

The news of Chavan's resignation did not come as a complete surprise to state party leaders, as rumors of his potential departure had been circulating for months. 

Former Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan expressed his disappointment, stating that voters would teach those who deserted them a lesson. Prithviraj Chavan also expressed his disbelief, as he never expected someone like Ashok Chavan to take such a step.

Conclusion

The resignation of former Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan from the Congress party has sent shockwaves through the political landscape. 

Citing internal power struggles, Chavan's decision to leave reflects a growing sense of discontent within the party. While some view this as a loss and a blow to the Congress, others see it as an opportunity for new leaders to emerge. 

Only time will tell how this development will shape the future of Maharashtra politics and the Congress party itself.