Mumbai, June 17 (UNI) — Maharashtra’s political landscape witnessed fresh turbulence today as six of the nine Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) Lok Sabha MPs reportedly moved towards the Eknath Shinde-led faction, seeking recognition as a separate parliamentary group.
Key Developments in the Shiv Sena Split
The political maneuver, dubbed “Operation Tiger” in political circles, marks a significant development in Maharashtra’s ongoing political realignment. The six MPs have submitted a formal letter to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla requesting recognition as an independent parliamentary bloc, potentially triggering anti-defection proceedings.
MPs Involved in the Defection
The six MPs reportedly aligning with the Shinde camp are:
- Sanjay Deshmukh
- Sanjay Dina Patil
- Sanjay Jadhav
- Nagesh Ashtikar
- Omraje Nimbalkar
- Bhausaheb Waghchowre
With six of the party’s nine Lok Sabha members supporting the move, the group meets the two-thirds threshold prescribed under anti-defection provisions. The three MPs remaining with the Uddhav Thackeray faction are Arvind Sawant, Anil Desai, and Rajabhau Waje.
Political Reactions and Allegations
Uddhav Camp’s Response
Senior Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut, accompanied by Arvind Sawant and Anil Desai, met Speaker Om Birla, urging him not to recognize any separate group. They argued that the party leadership and identity dispute remains sub-judice, with ongoing legal proceedings concerning the Shiv Sena’s symbol and status.
Sanjay Raut launched a scathing attack, alleging large-scale inducements:
“MPs were offered substantial sums of money, with reports hinting at offers ranging from ₹15 crore to ₹50 crore.”
Raut referred to the developments as “Operation Traitor” and “Operation Bazaar” , while also alleging that a chartered aircraft arrived at Nanded Airport to transport MPs as part of the operation.
Shinde Camp’s Defense
Shiv Sena spokesperson Shaina NC rejected allegations of poaching, stating leaders were “free to join the party voluntarily.” Shiv Sena MLC Krupal Tumane claimed discussions with several Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs and legislators were at an advanced stage.
National Reactions
- NCP (SP) leader Rohit Pawar described the moves as an “attack on democratic values”
- Congress leader Sachin Pilot criticized “attempts to weaken regional political parties”
- Congress President Nana Patole accused the BJP of pursuing power at any cost
- Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Priyanka Chaturvedi challenged rebel MPs to seek a fresh mandate from voters
What’s Next?
The Shiv Sena (UBT) has:
- Issued a whip for a parliamentary party meeting in New Delhi on June 18
- Convened a meeting of its MLAs and MLCs on June 22
- Party chief Uddhav Thackeray may travel to the national capital to address the situation
Historical Context
The current crisis draws comparisons with the 2022 rebellion led by Eknath Shinde, which eventually resulted in his faction being recognized as the official Shiv Sena with the party’s original bow and arrow symbol. Political observers believe this latest development could significantly reduce Shiv Sena (UBT)’s strength in the Lok Sabha while further strengthening the ruling alliance.
BJP’s Role Under Scrutiny
Reports suggest meetings involving senior BJP leaders, including Amit Shah and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, though no official confirmation was immediately available. The developments are expected to peak around June 19, which marks the Shinde Sena’s foundation day.
Stay tuned for updates as this developing story unfolds
This article is based on reports from UNI and other sources