New Delhi: The resignation of veteran Congress leader Milind Deora from Maharashtra has sparked surprise and sadness among Congress leaders. Jairam Ramesh, the party's national general secretary, alleged that the timing of Deora's move was orchestrated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, asserting that his departure would not negatively impact the Congress.

Ramesh claimed, "The Prime Minister has decided this [timing of the announcement], there is no doubt about it." Deora's resignation coincided with the commencement of the 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra,' led by Rahul Gandhi, prompting speculation about the motives behind the timing. Ramesh revealed that Deora had contacted him on Friday, expressing his desire to speak with Rahul Gandhi about concerns regarding the Shiv Sena claiming the South Mumbai Lok Sabha seat.

"He messaged me on Friday at 8:52 AM and then at 2:47 PM I replied, ‘Are you planning a switch?’. At 2:48 he sent a message, ‘is speaking to you not possible?’ I said I will call you and at 3:40, I spoke to him," shared Jairam Ramesh.

While invoking the memory of Milind Deora's father, Murli Deora, a former Congress leader, Ramesh suggested that Milind's exit would not significantly impact the party. "One Milind Deora will go, but lakhs of other Milind Deoras will join us. It will not affect our organisation at all," he remarked.

Congress MP Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury acknowledged having a "good conversation" with Deora during their last meeting and expressed resignation to the fact that individuals may choose to leave the party.

Mumbai Congress chief Varsha Gaikwad conveyed the party's deep sadness over Deora's resignation, emphasizing the longstanding connection between the Congress and the Deora family. She noted efforts to engage in a discussion with Deora to maintain unity within the political family.

Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit, considering Deora's departure, expressed skepticism about his potential alliance with the BJP, citing human weaknesses like greed and fear.

Milind Deora, a prominent Congress leader in Maharashtra, formally announced his resignation, marking the end of a significant political chapter. The 47-year-old leader is anticipated to join Shiv Sena under Eknath Shinde's leadership.

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