Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Shirsat has stated his willingness to welcome Sanjay Nirupam into the party fold if the Congress leader chooses to leave his current party. Shirsat emphasised Nirupam's alleged dissatisfaction with Congress, implying that his probable defection would be warmly welcomed by the Sena. However, he underlined that the final decision is up to Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde.

Shirsat told ANI, "Govinda joined our party on Thursday but he has declared that he won't be contesting the election. Sanjay Nirupam is very angry with Congress. If he thinks about it, he will take the decision in 2-3 days, and if he wants to join us, we will welcome him. However, the final decision in this regard lies with Eknath Shinde."