In a surprising turn of events, there are growing rumors regarding Sameer Wankhede, the Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer known for his high-profile investigations, potentially entering the political arena. Reports have surfaced suggesting that Wankhede might join the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) and contest in the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections from the Dharavi constituency. However, these claims have been swiftly dismissed by sources within the party. According to statements made to ANI by Shiv Sena officials, "The news that Sameer Wankhede will join our party and contest the Assembly elections from Dharavi is pure fiction."
This clarification comes amid a flurry of media attention surrounding Wankhede’s name and his possible political ambitions. The buzz around Wankhede's political aspirations coincides with the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections, scheduled for 2024, where the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is strategizing to contest around 150 out of the 288 available seats. BJP State President Chandrashekhar Bawankule emphasized the need for collaboration in seat allocation, hinting that Chief Minister Eknath Shinde might have to make concessions to maintain the alliance. Notably, the BJP is also eyeing seats in Dharavi, further complicating the political landscape. Wankhede has gained notoriety not just for his potential political moves but also for his previous roles in controversial cases. His most significant moment came on October 2, 2021, when he led a raid on the luxury cruise ship Cordelia near Mumbai, resulting in the arrest of 17 individuals, including Aryan Khan, son of Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan.
The operation, which was part of a narcotics investigation, drew widespread media coverage and public scrutiny, especially after it was later revealed that Khan had been found innocent of the charges against him. As the political landscape in Maharashtra continues to evolve, all eyes remain on Sameer Wankhede. Whether he chooses to step into the political arena or not, his name is likely to stay in the headlines, keeping both supporters and critics engaged in the unfolding narrative.
