Why Is Uddhav Thackeray Facing Another Crisis?
The latest dispute is the continuation of a long-running power struggle within the Shiv Sena.
The major turning point came in 2022 when Eknath Shinde led a rebellion against Uddhav Thackeray’s leadership. The rebellion resulted in the collapse of the Maha Vikas Aghadi government, forcing Uddhav Thackeray to resign as Maharashtra Chief Minister.
After the split, both factions fought over the identity of Shiv Sena and its name, symbol, and political legacy. The Shinde faction was recognised as the official Shiv Sena, while Uddhav Thackeray continued with Shiv Sena (UBT).
Fresh Trouble: Defection Rumours Return
In June 2026, speculation intensified that some Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs were being approached by the Shinde camp.
The rumours gained momentum when reports suggested that a possible political operation was underway to bring UBT MPs into the Shinde-led Shiv Sena.
Thus, the biggest question became, Will Uddhav Thackeray face another split, this time inside Parliament?
Missing MPs Spark Political Buzz
Uddhav Thackeray called a meeting of Shiv Sena (UBT) Lok Sabha MPs at his Mumbai residence, Matoshree. But only 4 of 9 MPs attended physically which has created speculations of dissent. However, the UBT camp later clarified that the MPs had attended virtually and denied claims of a rebellion. Still, the episode increased political tension as rumors intensified when MP Sanjay Deshmukh and others meet leaders in Delhi, reports emerge that offers worth 15 crore per MP were allegedly made to encourage defections and switch sides.
Why Is This Dispute Happening?
1. Battle Over Bal Thackeray’s Legacy
Both Uddhav Thackeray and Eknath Shinde factions claim the legacy and ideology of the party founded by Bal Thackeray.
2. Numbers Game in Parliament
Shiv Sena (UBT) has Lok Sabha MPs whose support could become crucial. Under anti-defection rules, a breakaway group generally needs two-thirds support of the party’s lawmakers to avoid disqualification. This has made every MP politically significant.
3. Future Political Positioning
The Shinde faction has indicated that leaders who align with its political approach are welcome. For Uddhav Thackeray, keeping his MPs united is important not only for Parliament but also for maintaining his party’s political strength.
Uddhav Camp Explores Legal Options
Amid the crisis, the Uddhav faction is preparing legal and political responses.
Possible steps include:
Challenging any defection under the anti-defection law
Approaching the Lok Sabha Speaker
Raising objections against rebel MPs
Using party rules and whips to maintain discipline
The faction has also stressed that action could be taken against leaders who violate party directions.
Allegations and Counter-Allegations
Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders have alleged that attempts are being made to break their party. However, the Shinde camp has rejected these claims and maintained that there is support for its leadership.
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