Sanjay Raut, a Member of Parliament for Shiv Sena (UBT), dismissed reports that party lawmakers are in contact with rival political camps [1].
The denial comes as speculation grows regarding a potential split within the organization. If lawmakers were to defect to the camp led by Eknath Shinde, it could shift the balance of power in Maharashtra's volatile political landscape.
Raut said the reports of MPs planning to leave the party are false [1]. He said that the members of Shiv Sena (UBT) remain loyal to the party and to the leadership of Uddhav Thackeray [2].
According to Raut, the party remains a strong and unified organization [2]. He addressed the rumors during an interview with NDTV, where he said he sought to refute claims that the party was fracturing from within [1].
"These reports are false," Raut said [1].
Beyond the denial of defection, Raut indicated that the party is taking active measures to counter these narratives. He said that a specific strategic response has been initiated to protect the party's integrity [1].
"Operation Wolf has been launched in response," Raut said [1].
The statement serves as a public affirmation of stability for the Shiv Sena (UBT) base. By explicitly naming the loyalty of the MPs, Raut aims to discourage further speculation, and solidify the party's position against the rival Shinde faction [2].
“"These reports are false."”
This denial is a strategic move to project unity and stability within Shiv Sena (UBT) to prevent opportunistic poaching by rival factions. By referencing 'Operation Wolf,' Raut is signaling a proactive counter-offensive to neutralize rumors that could demoralize party workers or embolden political opponents in Maharashtra.
