Champa Singh Thapa and Moreshwar Raje, who spent nearly three decades working for former Shiv Sena leader Bal Thackeray at his home, Matoshree, joined the faction headed by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on September 26.
Before Thackeray Senior’s passing in November 2012, Thapa had faithfully assisted the Sena patriarch for 27 years, assisting him with his daily tasks.
So much so that Sena President Uddhav Thackeray kept Thapa by his side when administering the older Thackeray’s final rites as a sign of gratitude for his service.
Thapa would answer calls from senior Thackeray and relay his messages to any callers.
Raje, who also used to answer calls at Matoshree for Bal Thackeray, has lived in the Thackeray home in Mumbai’s Bandra neighborhood for at least 35 years.
Thapa and Raje were greeted and given shawls by Thane MLA and Chief Minister Shinde as they joined the group.
Shinde claimed that the two joined his group because he represents the genuine Shiv Sena and is advancing the Hindutva and teachings of the Sena’s founder.
Vaidehi Vadan, the president of the Palghar Zilla Parishad, and a few other local officials also joined the Shinde faction on this occasion.
News Mania Desk
