The fate of the Congress party in Solapur District, particularly in Solapur City, appears to be fraying. Since the Lok Sabha elections, narratives of discord have been wide, culminating in a disorganized and almost self-sabotaging campaign by the MVA. For the first time in decades, this long-held Congress-Shinde city bastion has crumbled, leaving tensions running high within party and family.
Adding to the chaos are allegations against Solapur MP Praniti Shinde, former Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde’s daughter. Accusations of mishandling party affairs and alienating cadres have surfaced, with some workers openly criticizing her leadership. At the same time, Shikhar Pahariya, grandson of the Shinde patriarch, has sparked fresh intrigue in the last few months and his presence at the Maha Yuti swearing-in ceremony have set new rumours.
These developments come post a bad election for the Congress. Ahead of the elections, there was a buzz about Shikhar contesting the Solapur City Central seat. The idea was reportedly initially backed by the Shinde family and party but something went wrong. His absence during a crucial period had sparked questions about his role in the family’s and district’s political dynamics. Was it a deliberate move or a sign of deeper rifts? Sources suggest that Praniti and an established political figure in the district had opposed Shikhar’s candidacy and increasing involvement in Solapur. This alleged resistance has reportedly caused friction within the family, with many local Congress workers expressing their frustration with Praniti’s stance. There have also been other allegations from MVA partners, namely the Shiv Sena UBT – their MP, Priyanka Chaturvedi openly blamed Praniti for working against the MVA candidates. While the exact reasons behind this approach and feud remain unclear, it appears to be a battle over political territory and influence within the Shinde stronghold.
Notwithstanding these cracks, insiders close to Sushil Kumar Shinde hint at Shikhar’s growing popularity among Congress workers in Solapur – as a fresh and dynamic leader. However, the family feud could derail this potential, with the risk of alienating loyal cadres and deepening divisions in an already weakened party.
Fast forward to December 5, at the swearing-in, Shikhar’s appearance at the event—and his interactions with senior Maha Yuti leaders— did raise questions. A presence all the more conspicuous given that the MVA and INC had stated no representative from their alliance would attend – which raises the question: Is Shikhar’s attendance is merely with his civil-society identity or could this signal a political pivot like other high-profile family realignments in Maharashtra, such as the Chavans and the Ranes?
The broader implications of this development are plain – The Congress’s dismal performance in Solapur is its organisational worst, and these new perceived allegations and alignments could further complicate the picture. Maybe the December 5 swearing-in could emerge as an important moment in Solapur’s political landscape. Whether certain actions signify a shift in allegiance or a strategic manoeuvre remains to be seen.
