Six Shiv Sena (UBT) Lok Sabha members have revolted against the party leadership, triggering a second split within the organization [1].
This political shift is significant because it potentially increases the legislative strength of the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in the Lok Sabha. The move threatens the stability of the Uddhav Thackeray faction, which currently holds a total of nine MPs [1].
The revolt became evident when the six members skipped a key party meeting [1]. While the Eknath Shinde faction said the MPs have already defected, other reports indicate the members appear poised to make the move [1], [2]. This internal conflict reflects a deepening divide between the two competing factions of the Shiv Sena in Maharashtra.
The opposition faction said the move is driven by internal power struggles [2]. Under Indian anti-defection laws, members of parliament can face disqualification if they leave their party without a formal merger, or the support of a specific percentage of their legislative wing [2]. The rebels may seek a merger to avoid these penalties.
If the defections are finalized, the NDA will gain a larger voting bloc in the lower house of parliament. This would further consolidate the ruling coalition's power and marginalize the influence of the Shiv Sena (UBT) in New Delhi [1], [2].
“Six Shiv Sena (UBT) Lok Sabha members have revolted against the party leadership”
This development signals a continuing erosion of the Uddhav Thackeray faction's legislative power. By shifting six of nine MPs toward the NDA-aligned Shinde camp, the party loses its ability to act as a significant opposition voice in the Lok Sabha and weakens its bargaining position in Maharashtra's volatile political landscape.
