The Shiv Sena (UBT) is grappling with a significant internal turmoil following the defection of two Lok Sabha MPs, Nagesh Patil Ashtikar and Omprakash Raje Nimbalkar, to the rival Shiv Sena faction headed by Eknath Shinde. This shift bolsters the rebellion against Uddhav Thackeray within the party, with a total of six MPs now siding with the breakaway group. Ashtikar cited the lack of development funds for his constituency as a key reason for his decision, along with his frustration over negative remarks directed at rebel MPs. He emphasized that his allegiance to the Shiv Sena’s ideology remains intact, clarifying that he has merely transitioned to a different faction of the party to better serve his constituency’s needs.
Nimbalkar, affirming his move to the Shinde-led faction, stated that he would continue to engage with his supporters in his constituency before finalizing his future political strategy. Despite the political friction, he assured that he would refrain from making any adverse comments against Uddhav Thackeray or Aaditya Thackeray. This political realignment has further strained relations within Maharashtra’s political landscape, as accusations fly between the opposing factions.
In response to the defections, Sanjay Raut, a leader of Shiv Sena (UBT), claimed that some of the rebel MPs are still in communication with the party and are apprehensive about the backlash from their constituents. Raut expressed the party’s willingness to engage in discussions with any MPs considering a return. The Uddhav Thackeray-led faction has commenced disciplinary measures against the six MPs, issuing show-cause notices and cautioning them of potential repercussions under the anti-defection law. The party is also contemplating seeking their disqualification from the Lok Sabha Speaker if the MPs do not provide satisfactory responses.
The defections have escalated political tensions in Maharashtra, with both factions engaging in a war of words. Adding to the controversy, the BJP has dismissed allegations that it played a role in facilitating the defections. The unfolding situation underscores the deepening rift within the Shiv Sena, posing challenges to its unity and political strategies moving forward.