Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Milind Deora criticized the internal functioning of his party, describing its leadership style as a monarchy.
The critique comes amid growing instability within the faction and speculation that several lawmakers may defect to a rival group. Deora's public comments signal a deepening rift between the party's rank-and-file and its top leadership.
Speaking to the media, Deora addressed the current state of the party's governance. "UBT functions like a monarchy," Deora said [1]. He said that the party cannot allow the leadership structure to remain a monarchy [1].
These remarks coincide with reports of a potential split within the party's Lok Sabha representation. Rumors have circulated that six out of nine Shiv Sena UBT Lok Sabha MPs are considering defecting to Eknath Shinde's faction [3]. This potential exodus would significantly weaken the party's influence in the lower house of Parliament.
However, not all members of the faction agree with the speculation of a mass departure. Two UBT MPs have publicly denied any plans to switch to the Shinde faction [4]. This contradiction highlights the uncertainty surrounding the party's stability as different members offer conflicting accounts of their loyalty.
Deora's criticism of the party's internal dynamics suggests that the friction is not merely about political alignment, but also about the fundamental way the party is managed. The tension between the desire for democratic internal processes and the existing leadership structure continues to fuel rumors of further instability in Maharashtra politics [2].
“"UBT functions like a monarchy."”
The public dissent from a sitting MP like Milind Deora indicates that the Shiv Sena UBT is facing a crisis of legitimacy regarding its internal governance. If the rumored defection of a majority of its Lok Sabha MPs occurs, the faction faces a collapse of its legislative leverage, potentially shifting the balance of power in Maharashtra's volatile political landscape toward the Shinde faction.
