Shinde Sena MLA Shrinivas Vanga Goes Missing After Poll Ticket Denial

Palghar: Sriniwas Vanga, an MLA from Eknath Shinde 's Shiv Sena faction, has reportedly gone missing after being denied a party ticket to contest from Palghar.

Vanga was last seen on Monday evening, leaving his home in Talasari with a bag. His family has expressed concern about his well-being, noting he appeared distraught after the decision was made public.

On Sunday, the party fielded former BJP MP Rajendra Gavit from Palghar. Vanga, a key figure in Shinde’s initial rebellion against former Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, was visibly affected by the announcement and reportedly expressed regret over his alliance with Shinde.

His family members said that Vanga was deeply distressed and intended to reach out to Uddhav Thackeray personally to apologize for aligning with Shinde.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Shinde has contacted Vanga’s wife over the phone, reassuring her that efforts are being made to trace him.

Vanga, who had expected a ticket from Palghar’s Dahanu constituency, was instead offered a position in the legislative council—an offer he dismissed as a mere "lollipop."

Breaking down during a media interaction, he expressed his frustration, stating he was "paying the price for being loyal."