Rebel Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Nagesh Patil Ashtikar explained the reasons behind his exit from the Uddhav Thackeray-led party, citing the lack of development funds and difficulties of being in the opposition.
Ashtikar also claimed that he and some other MPs had not made any decision until June 18 but changed their minds after certain remarks were made against them, an apparent reference to party leader Sanjay Raut.
He confirmed that he had crossed over to the Shiv Sena headed by Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
Ashtikar said he had not compromised on his ideology and 'has just gone from one Shiv Sena to another'. He underlined the difficulties of being in the opposition, including the inability to get work done for party workers, as key reasons behind his defection.
