Sachin Ahir Defects to Shinde Camp, Threatens UBT’s Hold on Worli

Sachin Ahir, a three-time former MLA from Worli and a key architect of Aaditya Thackeray's political base, has defected to the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena. The move is seen as a significant gain for the ruling alliance and a potential setback for the Shiv Sena (UBT) in the Worli constituency.

Ahir, who represented Worli as an NCP legislator in 1999, 2004, and 2009, joined the undivided Shiv Sena in July 2019. He subsequently vacated his political space to facilitate Aaditya Thackeray's electoral debut from Worli, working extensively behind the scenes to ensure his victory. Aaditya won the 2019 assembly election by a margin of 67,427 votes. Ahir was later nominated to the Legislative Council in June 2022.

Ahir's defection comes at a time when Aaditya's grip on Worli appears to be weakening. In the 2024 assembly election, Aaditya's victory margin shrank sharply to just 8,801 votes against Shiv Sena candidate Milind Deora. Similarly, in the 2024 Lok Sabha election, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawant secured a lead of only 6,715 votes from the Worli assembly segment, compared to a much larger margin in previous years.

The Shinde camp now gains an experienced leader with deep organisational roots in Worli. Unlike many recent defectors, Ahir continues to hold office as an MLC until July 2028, providing the faction a strong voice inside the legislature.

Ahead of switching sides, Ahir sent a message to Aaditya assuring he would not contest against him from Worli. Reacting to this, Aaditya said, “He messaged me this morning saying he will not contest against me in Worli. But these are things people say.” Aaditya dismissed suggestions that the defection would hurt the party, stating, “We have been seeing this for the last four years. Those to whom the party gave everything are leaving only for personal interests. There is nothing new in this and it does not shock us. Worli Sewri was and will remain Shiv Sena (UBT)’s stronghold.”

When asked about his future plans, Ahir said, “I will try to fulfil any responsibility that Eknath Shinde gives me with all my might.” Political analysts view this defection as a well-timed move that could further erode UBT’s influence in a constituency that has been a stronghold for the Thackeray family.