Speculation of a possible split in the Shiv Sena (UBT) parliamentary unit intensified on Tuesday, with reports suggesting that at least six MPs were exploring a shift to the faction led by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Several MPs have reportedly switched off their phones amid mounting political uncertainty.
The rumours gained momentum after Shiv Sena leader Pratap Sarnaik indicated that the party could welcome dissident MPs who align themselves with the ideals of party founder Bal Thackeray and accept the leadership of Shinde. He said such representatives would be given “priority” if they choose to switch sides.
The focus has now shifted to Delhi, where the Shiv Sena (UBT) led by Uddhav Thackeray has convened a parliamentary party meeting on Wednesday.
Senior leader Sanjay Raut has already reached the capital and is expected to meet Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, in what is seen as an attempt to prevent any formal breakaway or reconstitution of the parliamentary group.
At the same time, reports suggest that MPs allegedly considering a shift from the Thackeray camp are scheduled to meet at the residence of Shiv Sena MP Shrikant Shinde in Delhi. Eknath Shinde is also expected to attend.
According to media reports, around six Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs—Sanjay Dina Patil, Sanjay Deshmukh, Nagesh Patil Ashtikar, Omraje Nimbalkar, Bhausaheb Wakchaure, and Sanjay Jadhav—are reportedly in touch with the Shinde-led faction.
The Shiv Sena (UBT) currently has nine Lok Sabha MPs. Under the anti-defection law, at least seven MPs would need to break away together to avoid disqualification if they seek to form a separate group.
Concerns over internal stability increased after only four MPs physically attended a recent meeting called by Uddhav Thackeray in Mumbai. While the party claimed additional MPs joined virtually or by phone, the limited physical attendance fuelled speculation of dissent.
An NDTV report claimed that the Sena (UBT) MPs are likely to meet Speakr Om Birla on Wednesday after ther meeting at Shrikant Shinde’s residence. The MPs will first complete the process of forming a separate faction within the Lok Sabha, after which this faction will be merged into the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, the report said.
The emerging political realignment has been linked to what some reports describe as an alleged “Operation Tiger,” aimed at strengthening the Shiv Sena in Parliament by attracting MPs from the Thackeray faction. The party led by Eknath Shinde currently holds seven Lok Sabha seats and remains a significant ally within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).
The broader political strategy behind the recent development is seen as part of efforts to reinforce the NDA to get some of the key bills passed in Parliament during the upcoming monsoon session. The Centre is expected to push several crucial pieces of legislation during the session, including bills related to delimitation and women's reservation, which could require broad political support across both Houses of Parliament.
The BJP-led government has already received a boost following the revolt within the Trinamool Congress, where a group of 20 rebel MPs reportedly extended support to the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).
