Two members of parliament from the Shiv Sena (UBT) announced on Monday they will join the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction [1].
This shift weakens the party led by Uddhav Thackeray and could signal a larger wave of defections within the organization. The move is seen as an effort by lawmakers to align with the current power structure in the Maharashtra state government.
Reports indicate that the MPs are moving to the Shinde camp to help the faction secure the two-thirds majority required to avoid disqualification under the anti-defection law [3]. While two MPs have confirmed the switch [1], some reports suggest up to six rebel MPs may be involved in the defection saga [2].
The departures have drawn sharp criticism from the Thackeray camp. Aaditya Thackeray said, "Your loyalty is for sale" [4].
Internal conflict within the party has also led to allegations of financial inducement. Sanjay Raut said the rebels were being offered 15 crore rupees to engineer trouble [5]. This claim of a monetary bribe was not mentioned in all reports of the defection, reflecting the volatile nature of the party split.
The Shinde faction continues to consolidate its position in Maharashtra, leveraging its control over government machinery to attract members from the UBT wing. The loss of these lawmakers reduces the legislative strength of the Thackeray-led faction at a critical juncture in the state's political landscape.
“"Your loyalty is for sale."”
These defections highlight the ongoing struggle for legitimacy and survival between the two Shiv Sena factions. By securing a two-thirds majority, the Shinde camp can effectively insulate itself from legal challenges regarding the anti-defection law, further marginalizing Uddhav Thackeray's influence in Maharashtra's legislative framework.
