Mumbai: In a development that could reshape Maharashtra’s political landscape, six Members of Parliament from Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) have reportedly approached Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla seeking recognition as a separate parliamentary group, signaling a major split within the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction.
According to media reports, six of the party’s nine Lok Sabha MPs have expressed dissatisfaction with the current leadership and are pushing for the formation of an independent bloc in Parliament. The move has fueled speculation that the rebel lawmakers could eventually align themselves with Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena faction.
Move Sparks Political Storm
The reported decision has triggered alarm within the Uddhav camp. Shiv Sena (UBT) Parliamentary Party leader Arvind Sawant has written to Speaker Om Birla, urging him not to recognize any separate faction or merger attempt. Sawant argued that the dispute over the original Shiv Sena’s identity remains under judicial consideration and that any such recognition could have serious political implications.
Sanjay Raut Alleges ‘Operation Tiger’
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut launched a sharp attack on the rebels, alleging that efforts were underway to weaken the party through what he described as “Operation Tiger.” He claimed that attempts were being made to lure MPs away from the Uddhav camp, though these allegations have not been independently verified.
Potential Boost for NDA
Political observers believe that if the six MPs formally break away and later join the Shinde-led Shiv Sena, it could further strengthen the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Parliament. The development is being viewed as one of the most significant challenges faced by Uddhav Thackeray since the dramatic Shiv Sena split of 2022.
Crucial Moment for Uddhav Thackeray
The reported rebellion comes at a sensitive time for Shiv Sena (UBT), raising questions about the party’s future strength in Parliament and its role within the opposition INDIA bloc. A successful split could significantly reduce Uddhav Thackeray’s influence at the national level and alter political equations in Maharashtra.
With both camps mobilizing support, attention is now focused on the Lok Sabha Speaker’s response and the next move of the rebel MPs, which could have far-reaching consequences for Maharashtra politics.
