Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut used abusive language to criticize party members suspected of defecting to a rival political faction [1].
This escalation signals a deepening crisis within the Uddhav Thackeray-led party as it struggles to prevent a repeat of the mass defections that crippled its power in 2022.
Reports indicate that between six [1] and seven [2] Shiv Sena (UBT) lawmakers were meeting with rival leader Eknath Shinde. Raut said that these members were offered 15 crore rupees [1] to leave the party.
"These rebels are betraying the party for money," Raut said [2].
The MP delivered these warnings during political meetings in Delhi and Maharashtra, and within the Indian Parliament [3]. He defended his use of aggressive Marathi expressions, saying that such language was necessary to address the betrayal.
"We will not stay silent if a split like 2022 repeats," Raut said [1].
The tension follows allegations that the rival faction is actively recruiting lawmakers to weaken the Thackeray faction's influence. Raut said that the party would block any attempt to split the organization and would take action against those involved [3].
"We will block any attempt to split the party and will take action against those who try," Raut said [3].
This public confrontation comes as the party attempts to maintain its stability amidst ongoing negotiations and power struggles within Maharashtra's complex political landscape.
“"These rebels are betraying the party for money."”
The volatility within Shiv Sena (UBT) reflects the precarious nature of party loyalty in Maharashtra, where financial incentives and strategic alliances often trigger sudden shifts in legislative majorities. Raut's aggressive rhetoric is an attempt to deter further defections through public shaming and threats of party discipline, highlighting the party's fear of a total collapse similar to the 2022 split.
