Congress Expels Sanjay Nirupam for Six Years Due to Indiscipline and AntiParty Remarks

The Congress took a decisive step on Wednesday, announcing the expulsion of Sanjay Nirupam, a prominent figure in Maharashtra politics, from the party for a period of six years. This action was prompted by Nirupam's repeated instances of indiscipline and his tendency to make statements that were deemed detrimental to the party's interests.

The decision to expel Nirupam was reached following a series of complaints regarding his behavior and his recent comments targeting the party's ally, the Shiv Sena, a key member of the Maha Vikas Aghadi coalition in Maharashtra. In an official communication, the Congress stated that the party president, Mallikarjun Kharge, had approved Nirupam's expulsion, effective immediately.

Nirupam, a former Member of Parliament, also faced repercussions as the Congress dropped his name from its list of star campaigners. His criticism of the state leadership's handling of seat-sharing negotiations for the Lok Sabha elections, particularly in Mumbai, further fueled demands for disciplinary action against him.

State party president Nana Patole confirmed that disciplinary proceedings had been initiated against Nirupam for his remarks against the party and its leadership in the state. Despite the party's actions, Nirupam downplayed the significance, highlighting the financial challenges faced by the Congress and suggesting he would reveal his next steps soon.

Nirupam's discontent stemmed from the Shiv Sena's decision to unilaterally nominate candidates for several Mumbai Lok Sabha seats, including one Nirupam had been eyeing. He criticized the Congress leadership for acquiescing to the Shiv Sena's demands, warning that such concessions risked undermining the Congress's position in the long run.

Having once been associated with the Shiv Sena before joining the Congress, Nirupam's journey in Maharashtra politics has been marked by twists and turns. His expulsion from the Congress underscores the challenges within political alliances and the importance of party discipline in maintaining unity and effectiveness.