Mumbai: Six Lok Sabha MPs from Shiv Sena (UBT) are likely to join the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena later today, according to sources. If this happens, it will be a major setback for Uddhav Thackeray after the split in the Shiv Sena.
The MPs are expected to formally move to the Shinde camp after 3 PM. Sources said an official letter, along with photographs of the MPs, may be released before the formal induction, while a press conference is also likely to be held later in the day. However, there has been no official confirmation from either side so far.
Amid the fast-moving developments, Uddhav Thackeray has called a meeting of party legislators as the Sena (UBT) leadership looks to contain the growing rebellion within its ranks.
Nimbalkar’s Switch Triggers Fresh Political Buzz
The development comes a day after Dharashiv MP Omraje Nimbalkar announced that he would work under the leadership of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Addressing party workers at a meeting in Govardhanwadi, Nimbalkar said the decision was taken after discussions with workers, office-bearers and supporters from his Lok Sabha constituency.
His move has intensified speculation that more MPs from the Uddhav Thackeray camp may follow the same path.
Rebellion Within Sena (UBT) Grows
The signs of rebellion had become visible after six of the nine Lok Sabha MPs from Shiv Sena (UBT) skipped a parliamentary party meeting in Delhi. The MPs reportedly submitted a letter to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, seeking recognition as a separate group.
If the merger is formally completed, it will further strengthen the Shinde-led Shiv Sena and may also boost the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance’s numbers and influence at the Centre.
Political observers are describing the developments as part of “Operation Tiger”, a term being used for the growing rebellion within the Sena (UBT) camp. The possible switch has triggered fresh tensions, public criticism and legal warnings from Uddhav Thackeray’s party leaders.
Amit Shah’s Attack Adds To Political Heat
The latest round of developments also comes shortly after Union Home Minister Amit Shah declared that there is now only one Shiv Sena under the leadership of Eknath Shinde.
Speaking at a public event in Kolhapur, Shah said that earlier people referred to the “Shiv Sena-Shinde faction”, but claimed that the party no longer has factions and is now united under Shinde’s leadership.
With six MPs now likely to cross over, the political battle over the Shiv Sena legacy has entered a crucial phase, putting fresh pressure on Uddhav Thackeray and his party ahead of the next round of Maharashtra politics.
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