"I Am a Loyal Shiv Sainik of Balasaheb, I Will Not Betray": Khaire Rejects Offer from Shinde Faction

The political drama unfolded after Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) minister Sanjay Shirsath publicly praised Khaire’s dedication and extended an invitation to join the Shinde camp. “Khaire has worked tirelessly for the Shiv Sena. He deserves respect,” said Shirsath, sparking curiosity about Khaire’s next move.

However, Khaire responded with sharp criticism and unwavering loyalty. “I am not a fool. I am a bitter Shiv Sainik of Balasaheb Thackeray. I stand with Uddhav Thackeray till death,” he asserted, categorically rejecting the offer.

Internal Rift Escalates

Khaire didn’t stop at declining the proposal. He also targeted Ambadas Danve, the Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council, and Sanjay Shirsath, accusing both of gaining political and financial benefits through opportunistic behavior.

“I hope the mother who raised Sanjay Shirsath will guide him to show respect and not speak ill of Uddhav Thackeray. I will personally meet him to explain this,” said Khaire, in a tone both stern and paternal. He further added, “I may die, but I will never abandon Uddhav Thackeray. I will always remain a devoted Shiv Sainik of Balasaheb.”

Factional Tensions in Marathwada

The ongoing feud between Khaire and Ambadas Danve—two influential leaders of the same party—has deepened existing divisions within Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray), especially in the Marathwada region. According to party insiders, Khaire has long complained of being sidelined by Danve, citing incidents where he was allegedly excluded from important events and ignored by the younger leader.

This internal discord has not gone unnoticed. Workers loyal to the party have reportedly raised concerns directly with Uddhav Thackeray, highlighting the growing dissatisfaction among the grassroots cadre. The infighting has given rival parties ample opportunity to exploit the situation, weakening the Shiv Sena (UBT) further in a region where its influence has already waned due to mass defections to the BJP and Shinde's Shiv Sena.

Shirsath’s Tactical Move Amid Party Challenges

Sanjay Shirsath’s move to court Khaire appears to be a calculated strategy aimed at capitalizing on this internal divide. By offering Khaire a place in the Shinde faction, he not only challenges Uddhav Thackeray's leadership but also seeks to further destabilize the UBT camp ahead of the upcoming elections.

Despite these political maneuvers, Khaire remains unmoved. His repeated assertions of loyalty suggest he is unwilling to switch sides, regardless of internal disagreements or tempting offers.

Looking Ahead: Unity or Further Decline?

With elections on the horizon, party observers believe that healing the rift between Chandrakant Khaire and Ambadas Danve is crucial for the survival and revival of the Shiv Sena (UBT) in Marathwada. If the two leaders continue to clash, other parties are likely to gain further ground, as has been the case in recent months.

In the words of several party workers, “Both leaders must reconcile and focus on strengthening the party. The public display of discord only benefits our opponents.”

For now, Khaire’s loyalty to Uddhav Thackeray stands as a symbolic reminder of the ideological roots of Shiv Sena—though whether it will be enough to hold the party together remains to be seen.

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