Since 2022, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray has faced ongoing political challenges. The earlier split led by Eknath Shinde removed the party name and symbol and questioned Thackeray’s claim as the political successor to Balasaheb Thackeray. Reports now indicate the party may face another division.
Sources told India Today that six of the nine MPs elected in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls may switch sides before June 19, the Shiv Sena foundation day. Two MPs have already arrived in Delhi, and four others are expected soon. The group plans to meet at the residence of MP Shrikant Shinde, where Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde is also likely to join.
The MPs are scheduled to meet Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla after the discussion.
Five of the nine MPs were absent from a recent meeting at Thackeray’s residence. Four joined online, and one spoke by phone. Despite clarifications from Sanjay Raut, one MP met a Union minister from the Shinde group, increasing speculation.
Uddhav Thackeray later addressed the situation, noting he had sensed unrest earlier but did not pressure anyone to stay. He said the present may not favor him but expressed hope for the future.
Party leaders Anil Desai and Aaditya Thackeray rejected claims of any imminent split. Sanjay Raut alleged that some MPs were being offered money to switch sides. The possible move could affect numbers ahead of the monsoon session in Parliament.
