In a significant political shift, Shiv Sena (UBT) is grappling with an escalating internal crisis as two of its Lok Sabha members, Nagesh Patil Ashtikar and Omprakash Raje Nimbalkar, have declared their allegiance to the Eknath Shinde-led faction of Shiv Sena. This move augments the growing dissent within Uddhav Thackeray’s party, with now a total of six MPs siding with the dissident group. Ashtikar expressed that his decision was motivated by the lack of development funds for his constituency and his discontent with criticisms directed at rebel MPs. He clarified that he remains committed to Shiv Sena’s ideology and has merely transitioned to another faction to better serve his constituents.
Similarly, Nimbalkar confirmed his defection but emphasized his intention to continue consulting his supporters before formulating his future political strategy. He also noted that he would refrain from speaking against Uddhav Thackeray or Aaditya Thackeray amidst the ongoing political strife. Meanwhile, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut suggested that some of the rebel MPs are still in contact with the party and are worried about potential backlash from their constituencies. Raut indicated the party’s readiness to engage in discussions with those willing to return.
In response to the defections, the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction has commenced disciplinary actions against the six MPs, issuing new show-cause notices and cautioning about possible consequences under the anti-defection law. Party leaders are contemplating reaching out to the Lok Sabha Speaker to seek disqualification of these members if they fail to provide satisfactory responses.
The unfolding rebellion has heightened political tensions in Maharashtra, with both factions engaging in accusations. The BJP, meanwhile, has dismissed allegations implicating it in facilitating the defections. This development marks another chapter in the ongoing political saga surrounding Shiv Sena, reflecting the deep fissures within the party and the broader political landscape in the state.