Six Lok Sabha members from the Shiv Sena (UBT) faction have rebelled against Uddhav Thackeray to join the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena [1].
This shift threatens the stability of the Thackeray-aligned camp and alters the balance of power within the legislature. The move follows a period of internal friction and strategic maneuvering between the two rival factions of the party.
The rebel MPs met with Speaker Om Birla in his office at the Parliament in New Delhi [1, 2]. While some reports indicate the MPs have already formally joined the Shinde camp [3], others suggest the transition was finalized around June 20, 2026 [1], which coincided with the party's foundation day.
The defection has been marred by allegations of financial inducements. Reports vary on the scale of the alleged payments, with one source citing an offer of Rs 15 crore [4], and another citing Rs 50 crore [5].
Sanjay Raut, a leader with the UBT faction, responded to the allegations of bribery. "We will not allow any horse-trading and will take strict action against those offering money to switch sides," Raut said [5].
The rebels reportedly skipped a meeting called by the UBT camp before proceeding to the Speaker's office [1, 2]. The UBT leadership had previously issued a whip for its members to attend that meeting in an attempt to prevent the split [5].
This development, referred to by some as "Operation Tiger," marks a significant blow to Uddhav Thackeray's influence in the Lok Sabha [3]. The move consolidates power under Eknath Shinde, further dividing the original Shiv Sena legacy into two distinct political entities.
“"We will not allow any horse-trading and will take strict action against those offering money to switch sides."”
The defection of these six MPs weakens the legislative leverage of the Shiv Sena (UBT) and reinforces the Eknath Shinde faction's position. By timing the formalization of the merger with the party's foundation day, the Shinde camp sought a symbolic victory. The conflicting reports regarding cash inducements highlight the volatile nature of party loyalty and the ongoing legal and political battle over the party's official identity and symbols.
