Shiv Sena (UBT) is grappling with an escalating internal crisis as two of its Lok Sabha MPs, Nagesh Patil Ashtikar and Omprakash Raje Nimbalkar, have confirmed their defection to the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena. This development marks a significant shift in allegiance, bringing the total number of MPs siding with the dissident group to six, thereby intensifying the rebellion within Uddhav Thackeray’s faction.
Explaining his decision, Ashtikar cited a lack of development funds for his constituency and growing dissatisfaction with the criticism directed at rebel MPs. He emphasized that his move did not signify a departure from Shiv Sena’s core beliefs but rather a transition from one faction to another in an effort to better serve his constituents. Similarly, Nimbalkar confirmed his switch but highlighted that he would continue to engage with his constituency’s supporters before formulating his future political plans. He made it clear that he harbors no ill will against Uddhav Thackeray or Aaditya Thackeray despite the factional strife.
In response to these defections, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut asserted that some of the rebel MPs remain in contact with the party and are wary of a potential public backlash in their constituencies. Raut expressed the party’s willingness to engage in discussions with any members contemplating a return.
The Uddhav Thackeray-led faction has taken a stringent stance by initiating disciplinary actions against the six MPs, issuing new show-cause notices, and warning them of possible repercussions under the anti-defection law. Party leaders are also deliberating on approaching the Lok Sabha Speaker to seek their disqualification should they fail to provide a satisfactory response.
This political upheaval has heightened tensions in Maharashtra, with both factions exchanging allegations. Meanwhile, the BJP has dismissed claims that it played any part in encouraging the defections, maintaining a stance of non-involvement in the internal disputes of Shiv Sena.